Moore's law

[ moorz law ]

noun

, Computers.

1. the principle of exponential growth, both observed and projected, in the density of semiconductors and digital processors: describes the doubling of the number of components in an integrated circuit approximately every two years.

Moore's law

/ môrz /

1. The observation that steady technological improvements in miniaturization leads to a doubling of the density of transistors on new integrated circuits every 18 months. In the mid-1960s, Gordon Moore (born 1929), one of the founders of Intel Corporation, observed that the density of transistors had been doubling every year, although the pace slowed slightly in the following years. The 18-month pattern held true into the 21st century, though as technology approaches the point where circuits are only a few atoms wide, new technologies, possibly not involving transistors at all, may be required for further miniaturization.

Word History and Origins

Origin of Moore's law¹

First recorded in 1965–70; named after U.S. businessman, engineer, and microchip manufacturer Gordon E. Moore (1929–2023)

Example Sentences

The best-known example is Moore’s Law.

From Los Angeles Times

Just as Moore’s Law helped chip designers predict and plan for the future, its generalizations provide guideposts that can help us ensure that the energy transition proceeds not just quickly but also smoothly and profitably.

From Los Angeles Times

But semiconductor engineers are running up against the physical limits of Moore’s Law, a long-held projection that the number of transistors on an integrated circuit will double every two years, making them smaller and faster.

From Los Angeles Times

Moore’s Law of scaling has slowed, or I would even say stopped.

From Los Angeles Times

But if we use the spirit of Moore’s Law, the spirit is that the technology will move on.

From Los Angeles Times