Communications 1 min read

Master/Slave

Last Updated May 24, 2021 1:48 pm

Refers to an architecture in which one device (the master) controls one or more other devices (the slaves).

In the light of shifting social norms, “master/slave” is considered to have signifgant racist connotations. Preferred alternatives to this phrase include:

Primary/Secondary
Primary/Dependent
Controller/Responder
Main/Ancillary
Main/Drone

Updated 3/1/2021

Was this Article helpful? Yes No

Thank you for your feedback. 0% 0%

About the author

Webopedia Staff

Since 1995, more than 100 tech experts and researchers have kept Webopedia’s definitions, articles, and study guides up to date. For more information on current editorial staff, please visit our About page.