FREE LIST Meaning and
Definition
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A free list is a term that refers to a data structure used in computer programming and memory management systems. It is primarily employed to keep track of available or unallocated blocks of memory within a computer's memory space.
In computer memory management, memory is typically divided into fixed-size blocks or pages. When a program needs to allocate memory for data storage, it utilizes the free list data structure to determine the available blocks. The free list maintains a list of memory blocks that have been deallocated or no longer in use, allowing the program to easily find and reuse these blocks for new allocations.
The free list often comprises a linked list of memory segments or nodes. Each node stores information about the available block's location and size, enabling efficient searching and allocation. When a program requests memory, the free list is examined, and an appropriate block is selected and removed from the list. This allocated block is then marked as in use, and its address is returned to the program for data storage.
Additionally, the free list is regularly updated as memory is deallocated or released by programs to ensure accurate tracking of available memory blocks. This dynamic management of free memory helps prevent memory fragmentation and efficiently utilizes resources, preventing wastage within the system.
In summary, a free list is a data structure used in memory management systems to keep track of available blocks of memory. It enables efficient allocation and deallocation of memory, optimizing resource utilization in computer programming.
Common Misspellings for FREE LIST
- dree list
- cree list
- vree list
- gree list
- tree list
- rree list
- feee list
- fdee list
- ffee list
- ftee list
- f5ee list
- f4ee list
- frwe list
- frse list
- frde list
- frre list
- fr4e list
- fr3e list
- frew list
- freelist
Etymology of FREE LIST
The term "free list" is a compound noun that consists of two words: "free" and "list". Here is the etymology of each word:
1. Free:
The word "free" originated from the Old English word "freo", which meant "not in bondage or servitude" or "at liberty". It evolved from the Proto-Germanic word "frijaz", which conveyed the idea of "beloved" or "dear". From there, it can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*pri", meaning "to love". concept of freedom and being unrestricted is at the core of this word.
2. List:
The word "list" has its origins in the Old English word "liste", meaning "border" or "rim". It is related to the Middle Dutch word "lijst" and the Old High German word "list", both of which meant "ledge".
Similar spelling words for FREE LIST
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