computer

[ kuhm-pyoo-ter ]

noun

1. a programmable electronic device designed to accept data, perform prescribed mathematical and logical operations at high speed, and display the results of these operations. Mainframes, desktop and laptop computers, tablets, and smartphones are some of the different types of computers. Compare analog computer, digital computer.
2. a computer program or algorithm:

   A computer can write a pop tune, but there's no guarantee it will be a hit.

3. a person who computes; computist.

computer

/ kəmˈpjuːtə /

noun

1. 1. a device, usually electronic, that processes data according to a set of instructions. The digital computer stores data in discrete units and performs arithmetical and logical operations at very high speed. The analog computer has no memory and is slower than the digital computer but has a continuous rather than a discrete input. The hybrid computer combines some of the advantages of digital and analog computers See also digital computer analog computer hybrid computer
   2. ( as modifier ) cyber-

      computer technology

2. a person who computes or calculates

computer

/ kəm-pyo̅o̅′tər /

1. A programmable machine that performs high-speed processing of numbers, as well as of text, graphics, symbols, and sound. All computers contain a central processing unit that interprets and executes instructions; input devices, such as a keyboard and a mouse, through which data and commands enter the computer; memory that enables the computer to store programs and data; and output devices, such as printers and display screens, that show the results after the computer has processed data.

computer

1. An electronic device that stores and manipulates information. Unlike a calculator , it is able to store a program and retrieve information from its memory. Most computers today are digital, which means they perform operations with quantities represented electronically as digits.

Other Words From

• com·put·er·like adjective
• non·com·put·er adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of computer¹

First recorded in 1640–50; compute + -er ¹; compare Middle French computeur

Example Sentences

The new computer model works by analyzing small oscillations -- or wobbles -- in the way a moon spins as it orbits its parent planet.

From Science Daily

Others climb up a toxic waste hill and bring down TVs, computers and washing machine parts and set them alight.

From BBC

The Pelicots’ middle child, Caroline Darian, now 45, screamed her anguish at her father in court as she demanded to know the truth about photos found on his computer.

From BBC

Keith Wells, founder and director of brand strategy business Brandwell, points out Apple's "think different" advert in 1997 which, rather than showcasing its computers, instead featured the likes of Albert Einstein and Mahatma Gandhi.

From BBC

Her mother fell for the ruse, giving the criminals remote access to unlock her frozen computer.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• data processor
• desktop computer
• PC
• personal computer