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
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But Intel’s latest earnings report showed big demand for central processing units, or CPUs, as companies continue building out their AI capabilities. Lisa Kailai Han, CNBC, 25 Apr. 2026 Demand for Intel’s central processing units (CPU) chips, which are based on its longstanding x86 architecture, is booming, the company said. Andrew Nusca, Fortune, 24 Apr. 2026 Another focus will be comments on capacity constraints for central processing units, or CPUs, which drove part of Intel’s weaker-than-expected first-quarter revenue guidance in its previous report. Bloomberg, Mercury News, 23 Apr. 2026 With expertise in both the CPUs (central processing unit) used in supercomputers and the QPUs (quantum processing units) used in quantum computers, Fujitsu is ramping up cutting-edge projects in the quantum field. Fujitsu Contributor, Forbes.com, 30 Mar. 2026 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

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Cite this Entry

“Central processing unit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/central%20processing%20unit. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

central processing unit

noun
: CPU

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