Source : Free On-Line Dictionary of Computing

power cycle
     
        (Or "cycle power", "cycle") To turn a machine's power off and
        on, with the intention of clearing some kind of {hung} or
        {gronk}ed state.  Synonym {120 reset}; see also {Big Red
        Switch}.  Compare {Vulcan nerve pinch}, {bounce} and {boot},
        and see the {AI Koan} about Tom Knight and the novice.
     
        [{Jargon File}]