MUTEX!!!

Hi folks,

Can someone explain to me “the programming dummy” this word mutex? Is it just a log shock and awe term, i.e. someone like Geoff sees something “mutex” in the logs and thinks back to Grade 10 Math and makes a quick retreat? 😁

Recently I have seen this word in different logs and wanted to double check with the pros before I press the terrifying search button on google. (I say that because I had a red mark on my face and thought I should google, it basically told me all the horrible things that it could be, until the unsponsored answer way at the bottom had a nothing to worry about explanation)!!