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interrupt

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interrupt

In computing, a signal received by the computer's central processing unit that causes a temporary halt in the execution of a program while some other task is performed. Interrupts may be generated by the computer's internal electronic clock (clock interrupt), by an input or output device, or by a software routine. After the computer has completed the task to which it was diverted, control returns to the original program.

For example, many computers, while printing a long document, allow the user to carry on with other work. When the printer is ready for more data, it sends an interrupt signal that causes the computer to halt work on the user's program and transmit more data to the printer.
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? Mentioned in ? References in classic literature
 
"Let the Public Accuser continue," called Ozma from her throne, "and I pray you do not interrupt him.
Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz by Baum, L. Frank View in context
Give good hearing to those, that give the first information in business; and rather direct them in the beginning, than interrupt them in the continuance of their speeches; for he that is put out of his own order, will go forward and backward, and be more tedious, while he waits upon his memory, than he could have been, if he had gone on in his own course.
The Essays by Bacon, Sir Francis View in context
Cummings, who was at all times a cheerful person, was whistling a tune, which he would occasionally interrupt to speak a word of friendly encouragement to his horse.
Present At A Hanging And Other Ghost Stories by Bierce, Ambrose View in context
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