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.

Noun

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