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

Acclaim Communications — a maker of computer switches — was bought by Level One Communications in 1998 for about $120 million. —Bernadette Toh, Bloomberg, 28 Jan. 2026

Onsite quantum advantage The Advantage2 system uses quantum annealing, a method designed to solve highly complex optimization problems that are difficult for classical computers. —Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 28 Jan. 2026

The personal computer was accused of eroding jobs. —Arkansas Online, 27 Jan. 2026

January’s indictment alleges 32 counts involving bank fraud, bank burglary, computer fraud and damage to computers. —Bonny Chu, FOXNews.com, 27 Jan. 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