central processing unit

noun

plural central processing units
: the component of a computer system that performs the system's basic operations (such as processing data), that exchanges data with the system's memory or peripherals, and that manages the system's other components : cpu

Examples of central processing unit in a Sentence

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.
Accelerated compute servers now incorporate two to 16 graphic processing units (GPUs) per server, alongside central processing units (CPUs) and even data processing units (DPUs). Steven Carlini, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 NVLink Fusion products will give customers the option to use their own central processing units with Nvidia’s AI chips, or twin Nvidia silicon with another company’s AI accelerator. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 19 May 2025 The average power density began modestly and grew slowly from 3 kilowatts (kW) per rack to around 10 kW as their central processing units (CPUs) became more powerful. Steven Carlini, Forbes.com, 3 June 2025 The original list of tariff exemptions included some semiconductor products -- including central processing units konwn as CPUs. Arkansas Online, 10 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for central processing unit

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of central processing unit was in 1956

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Central processing unit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/central%20processing%20unit. Accessed 5 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

central processing unit

noun
: CPU

More from Merriam-Webster on central processing unit

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!