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

Instead, a cable is plugged into a phone and connected to a computer or appliance running software to attack the device. —Zak Doffman, Forbes.com, 27 Apr. 2025

Rest your eyes: Reducing screen time and taking breaks while using computers or watching television can improve dry eye symptoms. —Suchandrima Bhowmik, Health, 26 Apr. 2025

People who love things like computers, computer peripherals, maker projects, and retro gaming are all being impacted, regardless of their political or economic viewpoints. —ArsTechnica, 25 Apr. 2025

Seismic imaging and computer models were used to determine the depth and structure of the magma system. —Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 25 Apr. 2025

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