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 visionary behind Rappi and now Tako, is building the operating system for the Pan American century. Tom Teicholz, Forbes.com, 1 July 2025 There are different ways to update the operating system, but truthfully, the core of it is all the same. Michael Saponara, Billboard, 1 July 2025 Apple introduced the next iterations of its operating systems earlier this month, and one of the biggest talking points was the new Liquid Glass design. Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 26 June 2025 Keeping your operating system, browsers, and security software up to date ensures that known vulnerabilities are patched. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 25 June 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 5 Jul. 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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