OutofOrder

Out of order is a phrase used to indicate that a device, system, or service is not functioning properly and cannot be used until repairs are completed. It appears on signs, displays, or interfaces to communicate a temporary unavailability.

In everyday use, the label is commonly found on elevators, vending machines, public-ticket machines, kiosks, and other equipment. It is often accompanied by an estimated repair time, a contact for maintenance, or information about alternative access.

In computing and digital contexts, the term can describe a condition where components are temporarily unavailable or data is not in the expected sequence. In processor design, the related term out-of-order execution refers to a technique in which instructions are executed out of program order to improve performance on modern CPUs.

The phrase has also been used as a title or motif in culture, including stage plays, films, and music, typically signaling disruption, error, or the need for repair.

Variations include “out of service” and “not in service.” The compound form outoforder may appear as a filename, slug, or variable name in computing and information systems.