computer

noun

com·​put·​er kəm-ˈpyü-tər How to pronounce computer (audio)
often attributive
: one that computes
specifically : a programmable usually electronic device that can store, retrieve, and process data
using a computer to design 3-D models
computerdom noun
computerless adjective
computerlike adjective

Examples of computer in a Sentence

He works all day on a computer.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
What of the author who never learns to write, the computer programmer who never learns to code, or the artist who never learns to draw? Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 25 Mar. 2026 In digital tests, wearers used natural pinching and grasping gestures to zoom and manipulate virtual objects on a computer screen with fluid precision. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 25 Mar. 2026 In making his pitch, Rubio said, Rivera opened his computer and showed the GOP senator an online bank account with JP Morgan Chase containing a substantial amount of money that Rivera said Gorrín would use to support the opposition in Venezuela. Miami Herald, 24 Mar. 2026 Guitars, however, were recorded at home directly into a computer, trimmed with digital shears, and then sent to Nagafuchi, who ran the audio signal through Landowner’s personal amplifiers in his studio and mic’d up the room. Nina Corcoran, Pitchfork, 24 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for computer

Word History

Etymology

see compute

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of computer was in 1613

Cite this Entry

“Computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/computer. Accessed 27 Mar. 2026.

Kids Definition

computer

noun
com·​put·​er -ˈpyüt-ər How to pronounce computer (audio)
: one that computes
especially : a programmable usually electronic machine that can store, get back again, and work with data

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