WordGarden.ioisochronous
C2Pronunciation
UK
US
- /aɪsˈɑːkrənəs/
Meanings
Adjective
occurring at equal time intervals or having the same period
using or requiring fixed timing in data transfer or digital communication
Beyond the definition
Imagine a perfectly timed metronome: each beat arrives exactly when you expect it to. That's what this word describes. It is used for events or systems that happen at equal, predictable intervals. You will often see it in physics, music, and technology, but the basic idea is simple: the same amount of time passes between one event and the next. In music, for example, a steady beat is isochronous. You might even say a reliable friend's visits are almost like that if they happen every few months like clockwork.
The word "isochronous" comes from Greek roots meaning "equal time." It describes something that occurs at regular, predictable intervals or maintains a constant period. While it sounds complex, the core idea is simple: equal time elapses between events.
Originally used in physics to describe systems where the period of oscillation remains constant regardless of amplitude (like a perfect pendulum—though real-world pendulums aren't perfectly isochronous), its meaning has broadened. In music, an isochronous beat means each pulse occurs at precisely equal time intervals, creating a steady rhythm. Think of a drum machine or a meticulously practiced drummer.
The term also appears in computer science and telecommunications, describing signals or data transmissions that are synchronized to maintain consistent timing. For example, isochronous transfer is a method used for streaming audio and video where data is delivered at a constant rate.
However, the concept isn't limited to technical fields. You might use "isochronous" metaphorically to describe something remarkably regular or predictable. "Her morning routine was almost isochronous: coffee, newspaper, then a walk," suggests a highly consistent pattern.
So whether you're discussing physics, music, technology, or simply the habits of a friend, isochronous points to a world where time unfolds with equal and predictable rhythm.
Examples
- 1
Rhythm test
The metronome produced isochronous clicks throughout the test.
- 2
USB audio
USB audio often uses isochronous transfer instead of stopping to resend every lost packet.
- Domainisochronous transfer
a data-transfer mode often used for real-time audio or video
- 3
Timing study
In the study, participants tapped more accurately when the tones were isochronous.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- equal-duration
- constant-period
Contrast
Do not confuse
Used with (collocations)
- isochronous signal
- isochronous transfer
- isochronous rhythm
Word family
- isochronism
- isochrony
Explore
Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- isochronousadjective