daemon

/'di:mən/ Cách viết khác : (daemon) /'di:mən/
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daemon

A young daemon with small horns helps a lost traveler in the forest.

Definition
  1. Noun:
    • An evil supernatural being; a demon: In computing and mythology, a daemon is often conceptualized as a background process or a supernatural entity, respectively. The term originates from Greek mythology, denoting a lesser deity or guiding spirit.
    • A person who is part mortal and part god: This archaic usage refers to a divine being of a nature between gods and humans.
Usage Examples
  • Noun:
    • In ancient Greek thought, a daemon could be a benevolent or malevolent spiritual force.
    • The print spooler on your computer runs as a daemon, managing print jobs in the background.
    • He was driven by a creative daemon that demanded constant expression.
Advanced Usage
  • In Computing: A daemon is a background process that handles requests for services such as email or network connections. It is not controlled by a user and typically starts during the boot process.
    • The httpd daemon is essential for running a web server.
  • Philosophical/Historical Context: In Socratic philosophy, a daemon (or ) referred to an inner divine voice or guiding spirit.
    • Socrates claimed to be guided by his personal daemon, which warned him against mistakes.
Variants and Related Words
  • Daemonic (adj): Pertaining to or characteristic of a daemon; fiendish or supernaturally powerful.
    • The artist was possessed by a daemonic energy.
  • Daimon: An alternative spelling, especially used in philosophical and classical contexts to refer to the guiding spirit.
  • Demon: The more common modern spelling, typically emphasizing an evil spirit. In computing, "daemon" is the preferred spelling to distinguish it from the malevolent entity.
Synonyms
  • Demon: An evil spirit or fiend.
  • Spirit: A supernatural being, which can be good or evil.
  • Genius (archaic): A tutelary spirit or natural inclination.
Related Phrases
  • Daemon process: (Computing) A specific term for a background service process in Unix-like operating systems.
    • You need to restart the daemon process for the changes to take effect.
  • Inner daemon: A metaphorical phrase for a powerful internal drive or compulsion.
    • She fought against her inner daemon of self-doubt.
Related Idioms
  • To have a daemon: To possess an extraordinary talent or relentless drive, often used in a creative context.
    • As a composer, Mozart seemed to have a daemon.
  • At the mercy of one's daemons: To be controlled by one's inner compulsions or negative impulses.
    • After the loss, he was at the mercy of his daemons.
daemon

A young daemon with small horns helps a lost traveler in the forest.

Noun
  1. a person who is part mortal and part god
  2. an evil supernatural being