Definition of heisenbug

heisenbug

noun

in computing, a bug that disappears or changes its behavior when an attempt is found to locate its source or to generally investigate it.

This is an actual occurrence, since tools such as debuggers do change a program's behavior. Even "innocuous" techniques such emitting debugging output to a console changes the runtime of programs and can affect timing-related issues.
- See more words with the same meaning: computer slang.
Last edited on Nov 15 2011. Submitted by WalterGR (via TheJargonFile) on Aug 14 2009.

origin

From "Heisenberg" + "bug". A reference to Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle in quantum physics.
Last edited on Nov 15 2011. Submitted by WalterGR (via TheJargonFile) on Aug 14 2009.

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Related words

Slang terms with the same meaning

Other terms relating to 'computer slang':
WBU	Definitions include: "what about you".
baz	Definitions include: in computing, an example or placeholder variable.
GTS	Definitions include: acronym for "Google that shit".
astroturfing	Definitions include: the use of paid employees or contractors - or people who otherwise have a stake - to astroturf.
tl;wrl	Definitions include: acronym for "too long; will read later".
architecture astronaut	Definitions include: a person who over-designs technical solutions, especially related to programming.
IDKK	Definitions include: acronym for "I don't know know!".
E-bling	Definitions include: An aggregate grouping or series of stylized printings, fonts, icons, emoticons, avatars, proverbs, etc., usually found at the end of an e-mail message uniquely identifying and personifying the sender.
doorstop	Definitions include: a piece of non-functioning or outdated equipment that is inexplicably kept on premises - perhaps to serve as a doorstop.
handwave	Definitions include: an insufficient (and often dismissive) explanation of something complex.
benchy	Definitions include: "benchmark".
RT	Definitions include: acronym for "re-tweet."
GFY	Definitions include: acronym for "go fuck yourself".
JFC	Definitions include: acronym for "Jesus Fucking Christ".
MFW	Definitions include: acronym for "my face when".
(show 591 more)

Slang terms with the same root words

None. How about some random words?

trap girl	Definitions include: A female hustler who is from the hood/ projects and learned what it's rocking with early in life. She knows the streets inside out and so she isn't afraid of shit on them. Highly respected, loyal and will do anything to hold hers down. A Trap Girl takes care of her man and rides for him always. Never disrespected, not even by her haters. You can take her to a black tie event or a crack house, she's equally comfortable both places. Independent female who can do it on her own. A Trap Girl loves the hood and she isn't afraid to show a ghetto side. Good fighter and capable of sass, class & trash. She may seem stuck up or shy but she's really just focused on her next move. She's not purposely rude, but she's definitely not friendly and if she doesn't like you, you'll know. She likes Trap Music and loves to fuck
gah	Definitions include: exclamation of frustration.
thinspo	Definitions include: "thinspiration".
Super 'em	Definitions include: To beat or to defeat someone in wrongfully defending an illegal cause or covering up a crime, especially after a hard struggle and many attempts by the adversary to resist the right or the truth, the last word, finality, checkmate, conclusion of discussion.
where in hell	Definitions include: See in hell.
pisser	Definitions include: the toilet.
*psycho-fcked**	Definitions include: When it is time to get the hell out of were ever you are!
tar bender	Definitions include: "bar tender", as spoken by a drunk person.
polish the pearl	Definitions include: to masturbate.
bod	Definitions include: body.