computer

noun

com·​put·​er kəm-ˈpyü-tər 

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

kəm-ˈpyü-tər-dəm 

noun

computerless

kəm-ˈpyü-tər-ləs 

adjective

computerlike

kəm-ˈpyü-tər-ˌlīk 

adjective

Examples of computer in a Sentence

He works all day on a computer.

Recent Examples on the Web

The tool is accessible anywhere on your computer through a keyboard shortcut. —James Peckham, PC Magazine, 15 Apr. 2026

At the time, the couple claimed that AC and Ryan were watching a movie on her father's computer. —Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 15 Apr. 2026

Josett pleaded guilty to three misdemeanors, including unauthorized computer access and fraud; annoying and repeated phone calls; and contempt of court for violating the restraining order. —Matthew Rodriguez, CBS News, 15 Apr. 2026

Scattered throughout the 290,000 square-foot complex are computer stations where people who lack internet or laptops at home can access the tool that virtually everyone needs to get by in a 21st-century world. —Scott Maxwell, The Orlando Sentinel, 14 Apr. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see compute

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing computer

• analog computer
• computer science
• digital computer
• home computer
• hybrid computer
• personal computer
• pre-computer
• quantum computer
• tablet computer

Rhymes for computer

• commuter
• polluter
• recruiter
• microcomputer
• minicomputer
• supercomputer
• neuter
• pewter
• router
• scooter
• shooter
• suitor

Kids Definition

computer

noun

com·​put·​er -ˈpyüt-ər 

: one that computes

especially : a programmable usually electronic machine that can store, get back again, and work with data