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

And packing no GoTo computer requires at least a rudimentary knowledge of the night sky and a star atlas or planetarium software. — Damian Peach, Space.com, 4 Aug. 2026

In this photo illustration, the logo of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) is displayed on a smartphone in front of abstract background on computer screen. — Priyanka Salve, CNBC, 4 Aug. 2026

Most computer model projections show this El Niño will capture the title of the strongest since at least 1950. — Andrew Freedman, CNN Money, 4 Aug. 2026

Communication Problems Are Shaped By Expectations Most people assume searching a computer screen means looking everywhere. — Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 3 Aug. 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