s.freeAll (Cmd-.) frees every running node but leaves the server booted and SynthDefs loaded

s.freeAll, bound to Cmd-. in the SuperCollider IDE, is the panic button for a runaway or stuck patch. It frees every currently running node on the server, stopping all sound, but it does not reboot audio: the server stays booted and previously-added SynthDefs remain loaded. After a freeAll you re-evaluate the code you want, rather than restarting the server. This distinguishes it from a full server reboot and makes it the standard live recovery move when voices pile up or a patch misbehaves.

Examples

// Stuck/runaway patch — press Cmd-. (or evaluate): s.freeAll; // all nodes freed, server still up, SynthDefs still loaded // then re-evaluate the voice you want

Assessment

What does s.freeAll / Cmd-. do to running nodes, to the server, and to loaded SynthDefs, and when would a live coder reach for it?