queue

[ kyoo ]

noun

1. a braid of hair worn hanging down behind.
2. a file or line, especially of people waiting their turn.
3. Computers. a FIFO-organized sequence of items, as data, messages, jobs, or the like, waiting for action.

verb (used with or without object)

, queued, queu·ing.

1. to form in a line while waiting (often followed by up ).
2. Computers. to arrange (data, jobs, messages, etc.) into a queue.

queue

/ kjuː /

noun

1. a line of people, vehicles, etc, waiting for something

   a queue at the theatre

2. computing a list in which entries are deleted from one end and inserted at the other
3. a pigtail
4. jump the queue
   See queue-jump

verb

1. introften foll byup to form or remain in a line while waiting
2. computing to arrange (a number of programs) in a predetermined order for accessing by a computer

Other Words From

• queu·er noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of queue¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Middle French, from Latin cauda, cōda “tail”

Word History and Origins

Origin of queue¹

C16 (in the sense: tail); C18 (in the sense: pigtail): via French from Latin cauda tail

Example Sentences

Dozens of school groups are listening attentively to guides about their city’s colourful history while a queue forms around the altar to make a wish.

From BBC

The case has attracted huge interest from Hongkongers, dozens of whom queued up outside of the court days before the sentencing to secure a spot in the public gallery.

From BBC

And secondly: "Will I still have to spend hours watching my hair turn grey in a hypertension-inducing fuel queue?"

From BBC

An automatic queue system has been introduced with fans needing to be online before the start of the sale with a valid registration number.

From BBC

As people wind through the queue of the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride, they’re greeted by a chalkboard message left by the princess.

From Los Angeles Times