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 program is on NCAA probation and has seen many former staffers have run-ins with the law, including Matt Weiss, who is charged with hacking into the computer accounts of thousands of college athletes to find intimate images. — Larry Lage, Chicago Tribune, 20 July 2026

Thunder combines onboard sensors with computer vision and edge computing to recognize terrain, avoid obstacles, and continue flying if communications or satellite navigation become unavailable. — Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 20 July 2026

Weight capacity Most standing desks can easily accommodate the weight of a computer and a keyboard. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 20 July 2026

Netchex targets industries where staff spend little or no time sitting at a desk or using a company computer – examples range from restaurant businesses to healthcare practices. — David Prosser, Forbes.com, 20 July 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