The word "reentrant" is spelled differently from how it is pronounced in English. Its IPA phonetic transcription is /riˈɛntrənt/. The first syllable is pronounced as "ree", while the second syllable is pronounced as "en". The "tr" and "nt" sounds are separated and pronounced distinctly. The spelling of the word is derived from French, where it is spelled as "réentrant". Despite the unconventional spelling, the word is commonly used in engineering and mathematics to refer to a point that enters a region or system more than once.
The term "reentrant" has multiple definitions depending on the context in which it is used. In mathematics and computer science, for example, "reentrant" refers to an algorithm, function, or routine that can be safely interrupted and then resumed without interfering with its own execution.
Generally, in computing, a reentrant program or subroutine refers to code that can be executed concurrently by multiple tasks or threads. It is designed to be thread-safe, meaning it can avoid data races and produce consistent results when accessed by multiple threads simultaneously. This is achieved through the use of local variables and proper synchronization techniques.
In the field of chemistry, "reentrant" may describe a process in which a solution, typically a liquid or gas, moves from a state of imbalance or disequilibrium back into equilibrium. This can occur when external factors or perturbations impact the system and cause it to return to a more stable state.
In architecture and design, a "reentrant angle" refers to an inwardly angled or concave corner. This design feature can be found in buildings, structures, and objects, and often provides visual interest as well as improved structural stability.
In summary, "reentrant" can have different meanings depending on the domain. It can represent a thread-safe and interruptible routine in computing, a process that returns to equilibrium in chemistry, or an inwardly angled corner in architecture.
The word "reentrant" is derived from the prefix "re-" which indicates repetition or returning back to a previous state or action, and the adjective "entrant" which refers to something or someone entering or participating in a competition or activity. The term "entrant" originated from the Middle French word "entrant" which means "entering". Combining these two elements, "reentrant" is used to describe something that reenters or returns to a previous point or position, often in relation to computer programming, mathematics, or architecture.