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

How researchers tested model To examine this possibility, the team modified the established Kawano/NUC123 computer code, which simulates Big Bang nucleosynthesis. — Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 8 Nov. 2026

Berry, who died last month and never did buy a computer (or a smartphone), describes in the essay his writing process, which involved drafting a piece by hand and then having his wife transcribe it on a typewriter. — August Lamm, Washington Post, 8 Nov. 2026

Instead of sorting products by category, items are placed in any open, available space, then scanned and stored in a computer system. — Kate Van Pelt, The Spruce, 7 Nov. 2026

The sprawling computer warehouses have become deeply unpopular with many Americans concerned about noise, impacts to utility bills, water usage and the rise of artificial intelligence generally. — Andrew Graham, Sacbee.com, 7 Nov. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see compute entry 1

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing computer

• analog computer
• computer science
• digital computer
• home computer
• hybrid computer
• laptop 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