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

Town officials then hired a forensic accountant to examine the town’s financial records, which allegedly revealed that Maclean had manipulated the town’s computer system to embezzle funds, according to the warrant affidavit. —Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 17 Mar. 2026

Certain chips are already in short supply, and that shortage is expected to make smartphones and computers more expensive later this year. —David Goldman, CNN Money, 17 Mar. 2026

Danielle Castillo, a computer crimes specialist with the NYPD who has recently been reassigned to homicide. —Denise Petski, Deadline, 17 Mar. 2026

Papers, computers, everything is wet. —Brandon Truitt, CBS News, 17 Mar. 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