biocomputer

noun

bio·​com·​put·​er ¦bī-(ˌ)o-kəm-¦pyü-tər How to pronounce biocomputer (audio)
plural biocomputers
: a computer that uses components of biological origin (such as molecules of DNA) instead of electrical components
The device is rudimentary—it can only perform basic high-school-level math problems. But this tiny "biocomputer" no bigger than a dime is powered by DNA, not silicon, and it represents one of the first significant steps toward a holy grail of science.Alex Salkever, Christian Science Monitor, 13 Jan. 2000

Word History

First Known Use

1952, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of biocomputer was in 1952

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Dictionary Entries Near biocomputer

Cite this Entry

“Biocomputer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/biocomputer. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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