Glossary Entry: Thread (programming)
Definition
Every program is ultimately a list of instructions that the computer can understand and execute. Normally, they walk through their instructions one by one, until they either reach the end of the program or an instruction to exit.
Threading changes this behavior by spitting off part of the program into its own "miniature program" called a thread. Each thread runs at the same time as the rest of the code, allowing the program to effectively do multiple things at once.
This is especially useful for lengthy or complicated tasks, as one thread can do the work while another keeps the user informed about its progress. Without this approach, the program will become unresponsive when it's busy chewing on something.
Threading changes this behavior by spitting off part of the program into its own "miniature program" called a thread. Each thread runs at the same time as the rest of the code, allowing the program to effectively do multiple things at once.
This is especially useful for lengthy or complicated tasks, as one thread can do the work while another keeps the user informed about its progress. Without this approach, the program will become unresponsive when it's busy chewing on something.
Back to the list of technical termsBack to the Glossary's Table of Contents