Select (Unix)

"Select" is like a teacher choosing which students get to answer a question. In Unix, it's a computer program that helps other computer programs listen for things happening, like a knock on a door or a phone ringing. When "select" is used, it's like asking the program "Are any of these things happening right now?" and the program will only respond if there is something happening. This helps other programs know when to do things and when to wait. Think of "select" as a helper that lets programs know when it's time to take action.