What does nonsynchronous mean?
Nonsynchronous describes something that does not occur, operate, or communicate at exactly the same time as another thing. The word is especially common in computing, telecommunications, electronics, and scientific research, where processes may operate independently of a shared clock or coordinated schedule. For example, nonsynchronous communication allows one component to send data without depending on precisely timed exchanges with another component. The term is related to asynchronous, but it is more directly focused on the absence of simultaneous timing or exact correspondence. In everyday language it can also refer to activities or events that are not perfectly coordinated, although it sounds more technical than simply saying “not at the same time.” Its usefulness lies in distinguishing merely irregular or independent activity from systems that truly lack synchronized timing.
Not occurring, operating, or corresponding at exactly the same time; lacking synchronization.
"The sensors used nonsynchronous sampling to capture changes at different moments."
Used chiefly in technical and scientific contexts.
In a nonsynchronous manner, without exact timing or coordination.
"The two units transmitted data nonsynchronously, reducing the need for a shared clock."
Nonsynchronous technology can pass information between components without making them share the same clock.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does nonsynchronous come from?
The word is formed from the prefix non-, meaning “not,” and synchronous, from Greek synchronos, meaning “simultaneous” or “happening at the same time.” Synchronous ultimately developed from Greek syn-, meaning “together,” and chronos, meaning “time.” The prefixed form nonsynchronous was established during the nineteenth century and became especially useful in technical descriptions of processes that do not share exact timing.
Related word forms
How nonsynchronous is actually used
The term is most common in technical and scientific contexts. It is formal and often describes processes whose timing, coordination, or correspondence is not synchronized.
Easily confused with nonsynchronous
Asynchronous commonly describes a process that proceeds independently or without requiring every stage to finish before the next begins, whereas nonsynchronous more directly emphasizes the absence of simultaneous timing or correspondence.