process
PROH-sehs
Process (noun) means a series of steps or actions that lead to a particular result. Example: “Learning a language is a slow process.”
noun
1
A series of steps or actions that lead to a particular result.
"Learning a language is a slow process."
"The hiring process took several weeks."
"Baking bread is a simple process, but it takes patience."
2
In computing, a running instance of a program.
"The task manager showed dozens of background processes."
"Closing the program should end the process and free up memory."
"A hidden process was slowing the laptop down for no clear reason."
verb
1
To handle or work through something according to a set method, including data or information.
"It takes a few days to process a refund."
"The software processes thousands of transactions per second."
"The office will process your application within a few working days."
How to use process
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA sequence of steps toward an outcome, or to work through something step by step.
Common pairings
ongoing process
process an order
thought process
process data
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Word forms
- Plural
- processes
- Third person singular
- processes
- Past tense
- processed
Fill the gap
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Learning a language is a slow _____.
Etymology
From Old French procés, "journey, course," from Latin prōcessus, "advance, progress," from prōcēdō, "to go forward."
Synonyms
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Frequently asked questions
What does “process” mean?
The word “process” means a series of steps or actions that lead to a particular result. In plain terms, a sequence of steps toward an outcome, or to work through something step by step.
How do you pronounce “process”?
“Process” is pronounced PROH-sehs (/ˈpɹɑ.sɛs/ in IPA).
How do you use “process” in a sentence?
Here is “process” used in a sentence: “Learning a language is a slow process.”
What part of speech is “process”?
Depending on how it is used, “process” can be a noun and a verb.
Where does the word “process” come from?
The word “process” comes from Latin. From Old French procés, "journey, course," from Latin prōcessus, "advance, progress," from prōcēdō, "to go forward.".
Is “process” a common word?
“Process” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “process” have?
“Process” has 3 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a series of steps or actions that lead to a particular result.
What is the difference between a process and a procedure?
A process is the overall series of steps that turns an input into a result — the big picture of what happens. A procedure is the detailed, specific instructions for carrying out a particular step. In short, the process is what gets done, while the procedure is exactly how to do it.
What is an example of a process?
Almost any goal reached through ordered steps counts. Baking bread is a process: mixing, kneading, proving, and baking. Hiring staff is a process: advertising, interviewing, and selecting. In nature, photosynthesis is a process. Each has a clear sequence of actions leading to a definite result.
What is the difference between a process and a project?
A process is repeatable and ongoing — the same set of steps run again and again, like processing orders. A project is a one-off effort with a defined start and finish, aimed at a unique outcome, like launching a new product. Projects often create or improve the processes a business then repeats.
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