linux kernel

noun

UK /ˈlɪnəks ˈkɜːnl/

US /ˈlɪnəks ˈkɝːnl/

The Linux kernel is the main brain of a computer that runs Linux and helps all the parts work together.

The Linux kernel manages the computer's memory and hardware.

SYNONYMS

core heart central component engine

RELATED WORDS

operating system Linux open source software computer

OTHER MEANINGS

2. The central part of an operating system that controls hardware and system resources.

Developers updated the kernel to fix a security bug.

3. The core module of the Linux operating system, first released by Linus Torvalds in 1991.

The Linux kernel is used in servers, phones, and embedded devices.

4. A piece of software that sits between applications and the computer's hardware.

Drivers let the kernel talk to devices like keyboards and printers.