idle state
Doing nothing currently
An idle state is when a system, device, or process is powered on but not actively performing work—ready to respond but consuming minimal resources.
Computers enter an idle state between user inputs; machines idle when running but not engaged.
The term appears in computing, engineering, and manufacturing contexts: The processor drops to a low-power idle state when not in use.
- on standbyPrepared for immediate deployment
- low power modeReduced energy consumption state
- dormantInactive but capable
- restCessation of activity
- at restMotionless, unmoving
sleep · waiting · killing time · twiddling thumbs · inactive · pause · on hold · stillness · dead calm · limbo · in limbo · quiet · stagnant · gathering dust · latent · holding · downtime · lull
idle stateexecuting
Carrying out a task
in use · engaged · processing · computing · operational
idle statepowered off
Without electrical current
shutdown · powered down · sleep mode · hibernation · standby
idle stateworking
In active function
occupied · at capacity · performing · accomplishing · grinding
idle, state, idles, idled, idling, idler, idlers, idly, idleness