A register is a very fast computer memory used to store data/instruction in-execution. It contains a group of flip-flops that are capable of storing binary information. There are a variety of different types of registers used in the processor design, including: general purpose registers (GPR), floating-point registers, vector registers, and constant registers.
The word register is a noun and verb that means a number of things, depending on how it’s used:
As a noun, a register refers to the actual book you use to record things or the device a checkout clerk uses to ring up your groceries. It can also refer to an official list of people or things, like a voter’s register or the official records of a marriage.
You can also register something as a verb, which usually means to mark it down officially or sign up for it: I registered for classes at the beginning of the semester. I’ll register my car at the DMV later today.
The word register can also refer to the way we speak, with different linguistic registers:
Casual register: This is the language you’ll use when talking with close friends and acquaintances, or even strangers in a social setting. This type of language includes the use of slang, contractions and vernacular grammar. It can even include expletives or off-color language in certain situations.
Professional register: This is the kind of language you’ll use in a business setting or when you’re communicating with someone who has more knowledge than you do about a subject. You might use this type of language to impress or influence others, or simply to make yourself seem more authoritative.
Linguistic register: In sociolinguistics, a register is a variety of language used for a particular purpose or in a specific communicative situation. In other words, it’s the “voice” you use when speaking with a coworker or customer. This kind of voice often has a distinct tone, vocabulary and grammar that set it apart from other varieties of the same language.
You can also register an object, a piece of machinery or an invention, which gives you exclusive rights over it for a specified period of time. This process can be expensive and lengthy, but it’s necessary to protect your intellectual property. If you have an idea for a new product or machine, it’s worth researching whether you can patent it before you start working on it. If you do, you’ll be able to keep other companies from using your product without permission, which will save you a lot of trouble down the line. If you don’t register your invention, however, you could face significant legal consequences down the road. Keeping up with your registration is crucial, and not just to avoid penalties from the DMV. Leaving your registration to expire can lead to other problems, including your vehicle being impounded by the police. This can cost you more money in fines, towing fees and other costs. If you’re pulled over for a traffic violation and your registration is expired, you’ll have to pay additional fees to get it back up to date.