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Kernel

nounid 3062·updated May 9, 2026
verified

The essential center of a computer operating system, the core that provides basic services for all other parts of the operating system. A synonym is nucleus. A kernel can be contrasted with a shell, the outermost part of an operating system that interacts with user commands. Kernel and shell are terms used more frequently in Unix and some other operating systems than in IBM mainframe systems.

polysemous

Classifications

Entity Type

System90%rule-basedr:entity.system.compute.v1

Sensitivity

unclassified

Information Class

unclassified

Variants

synonym
meatsubstance
plural
Kernels
possessive
Kernel's
pluralpossessive
Kernels'

Framework definitions

SANS Glossary of Security Terms1 senseview framework →
§1
The essential center of a computer operating system, the core that provides basic services for all other parts of the operating system. A synonym is nucleus. A kernel can be contrasted with a shell, the outermost part of an operating system that interacts with user commands. Kernel and shell are terms used more frequently in Unix and some other operating systems than in IBM mainframe systems.
Wordset Dictionary3 sensesview framework →
§1
the choicest or most essential or most vital part of some idea or experience
§2
a single whole grain of a cereal
§3
the inner and usually edible part of a seed or grain or nut or fruit stone

Outgoing relationships

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Incoming relationships

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No other term currently asserts a relationship to this one.