Starvation in Java multithreading is a condition where a thread is repeatedly denied access to CPU time, locks, or other shared resources because other threads continuously receive higher priority or gain access first. As a result, the affected thread may remain waiting for an extremely long time and may never complete its task.
Key Points: • Starvation commonly occurs when high-priority threads continuously consume resources, leaving low-priority threads waiting. • Unfair lock acquisition policies can cause certain threads to be repeatedly bypassed. • Using fair locking mechanisms, balanced thread priorities, and proper thread scheduling can help prevent starvation.
Example: Consider a customer support system where VIP tickets are always processed before normal tickets. If VIP requests keep arriving continuously, normal tickets may never get processed. This situation is similar to thread starvation in Java.
Interview Tip: A concise interview answer is: Starvation occurs when a thread cannot obtain sufficient CPU time or shared resources because other threads continuously monopolize them. It can be reduced by using fair locks, avoiding excessive thread priorities, and designing balanced resource allocation strategies.