mainframe

[ meyn-freym ]

noun

, Computers.

1. a large computer, often the hub of a system serving many users.

mainframe

/ ˈmeɪnˌfreɪm /

noun

1. 1. a high-speed general-purpose computer, usually with a large storage capacity
   2. ( as modifier )

      mainframe systems

2. the central processing unit of a computer

mainframe

/ mān′frām′ /

1. A large, often powerful computer, usually dedicated to lengthy, complex calculations or set up for use by many people simultaneously.
2. Compare personal computer

mainframe

1. A large, powerful computer system. A mainframe computer typically carries out complex calculations and is shared by many users. ( Compare personal computer .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of mainframe¹

First recorded in 1960–65; main ¹ + frame

Example Sentences

Every few decades, a platform shift occurs—such as that from mainframes to PCs and the internet, or the subsequent evolution to mobile and cloud computing.

From Time

In 1981, her junior year, she spent $800 of her own money on a 1,200-baud modem so that she could code through the night from her shared apartment, feeding her code into the mainframe.

From MIT Technology Review

Also known as microchips, they were revolutionizing electronics and computing, contributing to the gradual miniaturization of computers from mainframes to today’s smartphones.

From Science News

The earliest programs, gawkish code running on ungainly mainframes, were woodpushers, capable of playing chess technically but not well.

From FiveThirtyEight

The clunky mainframe was “miraculously patched together, at considerable cost, to get us through the pandemic surge,” the state’s governor said in his December 2020 budget proposal, which sought to replace the system.

From ProPublica

The United Nations was prompted to impose a ban on selling mainframe computers or laptops to North Korea.

From The Daily Beast

With some maneuvering, he and Tron take over the MCP and kill Sark, proving they're the most badass guys in the mainframe.

From The Daily Beast

Just like he was lasered into the mainframe, Flynn is beamed out, with proof that Dillinger stole the videogames he invented.

From The Daily Beast

Since the poem was written, the darker side of personal and mainframe computers has given the poem a more sinister meaning.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

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