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

The comments are significant because demand hasn't been the primary question surrounding Arm's first in-house central processing unit for data centers. — Alexa Lomonaco, CNBC, 16 Sep. 2026

Huawei says this can reduce energy losses in neural processing units, graphics processing units, central processing units and digital signal processors, all of which contribute significantly to a smartphone processor’s power and thermal load. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 7 Sep. 2026

Speed Tablets have a central processing unit that controls its speed. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026

And those signals travel to some central processing units so that the animal knows to like move away. — Quanta Magazine, 6 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for central processing unit

• lunate
• multiunit
• subunit

Kids Definition

central processing unit

noun

: CPU