throttled

Throttled is the past tense and past participle of throttle, meaning to regulate or reduce the flow or rate of something. In general use, something that is throttled has its speed, output, or intensity restricted to stay within limits or to protect a system or resource.

In technology and communications, throttling commonly refers to bandwidth or rate limiting. Bandwidth throttling slows data transfer to a defined rate, often applied by Internet service providers, networks, or content delivery systems to manage congestion, enforce policies, or preserve resources. API throttling restricts how many requests a client may make in a given period, preventing abuse and ensuring fair access among users. In software and operating systems, throttling can also describe mechanisms that limit the rate of events or tasks, such as I/O operations or background processing, to avoid resource contention.

In hardware and power management, throttling describes intentional reductions in performance to manage heat or power consumption. Thermal throttling reduces a processor or graphics unit’s clock speed when temperatures approach unsafe levels, trading performance for reliability. CPU and GPU throttling is common in battery-powered devices to extend runtime.

In mechanical engineering, a throttle (throttle valve) regulates air or fuel flow to an internal combustion engine, controlling power output. Modern engines often use electronic throttle control, with the throttle position adjusted by sensors and control units rather than a direct cable.

Overall, throttling is a deliberate constraint designed to maintain stability, protect components, or enforce policy, at the cost of reduced performance or throughput.