process1

 
Pronunciation: /ˈprəʊsɛs/

noun

  • 1a series of actions or steps taken in order to achieve a particular end: military operations could jeopardize the peace process
  • a natural series of changes: the ageing process
  • a systematic series of mechanized or chemical operations that are performed in order to produce something: the manufacturing process is relatively simple
  • Computing an instance of a program being executed in a multitasking operating system, typically running in an environment that protects it from other processes..
  • [as modifier] Printing relating to or denoting printing using ink in three colours (cyan, magenta, and yellow) and black to produce a complete range of colour: process inks
  • 2 Law a summons or writ requiring a person to appear in court.
  • 3 Biology & Anatomy a natural appendage or outgrowth on or in an organism, such as a protuberance on a bone.

verb

[with object]
  • perform a series of mechanical or chemical operations on (something) in order to change or preserve it: the salmon is quickly processed after harvest to preserve the flavour
  • deal with (someone or something) using an official procedure: the immigration authorities who processed him
  • Computing operate on (data) by means of a program.

Phrases

be in the process of doing something

be continuing with an action already started: I was in the process of buying a house

in the process

as an unintended part of a course of action: she would make him pay for this, even if she killed herself in the process

in process of time

as time goes on: daughters and sons may find themselves, in process of time, caring for their elderly parents

Derivatives

processable

adjective

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French proces, from Latin processus 'progression, course', from the verb procedere (see proceed). Current senses of the verb date from the late 19th century

Spelling help

Spell process and the related word processor with one c and a double s.