computer

noun

com·​put·​er kəm-ˈpyü-tər How to pronounce computer (audio)
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 noun
computerless adjective
computerlike adjective

Examples of computer in a Sentence

He works all day on a computer.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The compact computer provides cyclists with live info like speed, distance, ride length, and more. Drew Zieff, Outside Online, 8 July 2025 For examples marketers may use path analysis to optimize resources and attribute revenues, cluster analysis to segment markets objectively, and computer vision to evaluate, categorize and personalize creative. Stephen Diorio, Forbes.com, 8 July 2025 Meanwhile, the script also introduces Richard Pryor, who, running out of his unemployment benefits, takes a job as a computer programmer, and in no time has figured a way to beat the machine. Arthur Knight, HollywoodReporter, 7 July 2025 Meteorologists at the Austin/San Antonio office were also studying computer models and noticing a dangerous buildup of moisture and heavy rain. Rick Jervis, USA Today, 7 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for computer

Word History

Etymology

see compute

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of computer was in 1613

Cite this Entry

“Computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/computer. Accessed 13 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

computer

noun
com·​put·​er -ˈpyüt-ər How to pronounce computer (audio)
: one that computes
especially : a programmable usually electronic machine that can store, get back again, and work with data

More from Merriam-Webster on computer

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