microprocessor

American  

[mahy-kroh-pros-es-er, ‑uh-ser, ‑-proh-ses-er, ‑suh-ser] / ˈmaɪ kroʊˌprɒs ɛs ər, ‑ə sər, ‑ˌproʊ sɛs ər, ‑sə sər /

noun

1. an integrated computer circuit that performs all the functions of a CPU.

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microprocessor British  

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈprəʊsɛsə /

noun

1. computing a single integrated circuit performing the basic functions of the central processing unit in a small computer

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microprocessor Scientific  

/ mī′krō-prŏs′ĕs-ər /

1. An integrated circuit that contains a processor, such as a central processing unit.

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Other Word Forms

• microprocessing noun

Etymology

Origin of microprocessor

First recorded in 1965–70; micro- + processor

Compare meaning

How does microprocessor compare to similar and commonly confused words? Explore the most common comparisons:

• microprocessor vs. integrated circuit

Explanation

Your computer has a number of microprocessors — each one a very small device with integrated circuits built into it that carry out the computer's logical operations. Because a microprocessor is so small, more than one is needed. A microprocessor is a chip inside your computer's central processing unit (CPU) or inside your phone or other mobile or smart device. Each one is something like a mini CPU itself, receiving digital signals, carrying out logical and arithmetic operations, and connecting peripherals (electronic equipment connected by cables) and memory chips. The word microprocessor uses the combining form micro-, from Greek mikros, meaning "small."

Example Sentences

He joined Intel in the 1980s and contributed to the company’s golden era, helping build Intel’s chip factories and mass-produce Intel’s 486 microprocessor.

From The Wall Street Journal • Nov. 27, 2025

Lynn Conway, who died Sunday at 86, was a leader in the development of personal computers and microprocessor technology, and a symbol for generations of transgender individuals.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 7, 2025

High-speed, high-capacity memory chips hold and quickly shuttle data to a computer’s microprocessor, which converts it into text, sound and images.

From New York Times • May 16, 2024

On a parabolic flight last year, where John experienced weightlessness for the first time, he found his day-to-day, hi-tech, microprocessor prosthetic leg would need recalibrating.

From BBC • May 8, 2024

These master-regulatory genes work by turning other genes on and off; they can be likened to circuits in a microprocessor.

From "The Gene" by Siddhartha Mukherjee

Related Words

• chip
• circuitry
• microchip
• silicon chip