asynchronous
This term describes a lack of temporal alignment, creating a sense of disconnection or staggered timing. In general usage, it suggests a disjointed rhythm where elements do not move in unison, often evoking a feeling of independence or irregularity compared to the rigid coordination of synchronous events.
In technical and professional spheres, the word carries a neutral, functional connotation. It specifically highlights the efficiency of decoupled processes, such as digital communication or data transfer, where the absence of a real-time requirement allows for flexibility and non-blocking operations.
Meanings
Not occurring at the same time or operating at the same rate.
The two dancers performed an asynchronous routine where their movements never aligned.
Examples
The clocks are asynchronous.
It is an asynchronous process.
They are asynchronous now.
The two signals were asynchronous.
We used an asynchronous method.
The timing was asynchronous today.
Our team prefers asynchronous updates via Slack.
The students completed the asynchronous online module.
The robot moved in an asynchronous pattern.
Asynchronous workflows allow for greater flexibility in global teams.
The legacy system relied on an asynchronous data transfer.
We must adopt asynchronous communication to bridge the time zones.