fifo

noun

UK /ˈfaɪfəʊ/

US /ˈfaɪfoʊ/

FIFO is a rule where the first thing to go in is the first thing to come out.

The bakery uses FIFO, so the oldest bread is sold first.

SYNONYMS

first in, first out first-come, first-served queue order ordered release

RELATED WORDS

queue stack inventory buffer lifo

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A method of storing and retrieving data in computing where the earliest saved item is handled first.

The printer's FIFO buffer prints jobs in the order they were sent.

3. An accounting method that values the oldest inventory as sold first.

Under FIFO, the company's oldest stock was counted as sold before newer stock.

4. A way of organizing a line of people or tasks so the earliest arrival is served first.

The ticket counter follows FIFO, so the first person in line gets the first ticket.