The phrase "repeat delay" refers to the time between a key being pressed and the character being repeated on a computer keyboard. In terms of spelling, "repeat" is pronounced /rɪˈpiːt/ with the "ei" diphthong producing the long "ee" sound. "Delay" is pronounced /dɪˈleɪ/ with the "ai" diphthong producing the long "ay" sound. Together, the phrase "repeat delay" is pronounced /rɪˈpiːt ˈdɪleɪ/ with emphasis on the first syllables of each word.
Repeat delay refers to a delay or lag time that occurs after pressing and holding down a key on a keyboard, before the key starts to automatically repeat its input. It is a characteristic commonly found in computer keyboards and other input devices and serves as a control mechanism to prevent immediate repetition of a keystroke when it is held down.
When a key is pressed and held down, the initial input is registered by the system, and after a brief pause known as the repeat delay, the system starts to replicate the input rapidly and continuously. The repeat delay ensures that accidental repetition is avoided and that users have enough time to release the key if they didn't mean to trigger the repetitive action.
The duration of the repeat delay can vary depending on the hardware or software settings of the keyboard. It is often adjustable to accommodate different user preferences or specific requirements. Users may modify the repeat delay to reduce the time it takes for the key to start repeating or increase it to reduce the potential for errors caused by unintentional repetition.
In summary, the repeat delay refers to the time delay between when a key is pressed and held down on a keyboard and when it starts to automatically repeat its input. This feature allows users to control the rate at which keystrokes are repeated to ensure accurate and intentional input.
The etymology of the term "repeat delay" can be understood by examining the origins of each word separately.
1. Repeat:
The word "repeat" has its roots in the Latin word "repetere", which is a combination of the prefix "re-" meaning "again" and "petere" meaning "to seek" or "to aim for". Over time, the word evolved to mean "to say or do something again".
2. Delay:
The word "delay" has its origins in the Old French word "delai", which can be traced back to the Latin word "delatare" meaning "to put off" or "to defer". The term implies a situation where an action or event is postponed or held back.
When these two words are combined, "repeat delay" refers to a pause or time interval needed before a repeated action occurs again.