processing cycle
nounUK /ˈprəʊsesɪŋ ˈsaɪkəl/
US /ˈprɑːsesɪŋ ˈsaɪkəl/
A processing cycle is the set of steps a computer or machine goes through to finish a job.
The computer's processing cycle starts when you press a key and ends when the answer appears on the screen.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The repeating series of steps a factory uses to turn raw materials into finished products.
The factory shortened its processing cycle to make toys faster.
3. The stages a living thing or system goes through to handle food, information, or waste.
The body's processing cycle for food takes several hours.
4. The time and steps needed to handle a request, order, or application from start to finish.
Our office aims to keep the processing cycle for forms under three days.