operating system

noun

: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of programs (as by assigning storage space in memory and controlling input and output functions)

Examples of operating system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The decision could have fundamentally reshaped how Google does business, and the Justice Department proposed sweeping changes including selling off Chrome or the Android operating system. Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 3 Sep. 2025 The government took on Microsoft in the late 1990s, arguing that its bundling of its Explorer browser with its Windows operating system was anticompetitive. Dave Smith, Fortune, 2 Sep. 2025 The federal government accused the company of monopolistic practices for forcing PC manufacturers to license Microsoft operating systems and Windows together - pushing out other companies. Jaclyn Diaz, NPR, 2 Sep. 2025 Digital advertising giant The Trade Desk has been developing a new operating system, known as Ventura, which is set to launch in the near future and is being positioned as a game-changer for the connected TV space. Tyler Aquilina, Variety, 29 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for operating system

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of operating system was in 1961

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Cite this Entry

“Operating system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/operating%20system. Accessed 7 Sep. 2025.

Kids Definition

operating system

noun
: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of the user's programs (as by controlling input and output functions)

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