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

Luke turns off his targeting computer and blows up the Death Star. —Mike Ryan, IndieWire, 4 May 2026

Senior computer engineering major Sean Toolis has a job at Raytheon in Tucson, Arizona, waiting for him. —Shelley Jones, Chicago Tribune, 4 May 2026

Spire took steps to remove Gabehart’s computer access at Spire as of March 18 in light of the litigation, according to court records. —Chase Jordan may 4, Charlotte Observer, 4 May 2026

Goldman’s equity analysts forecast average selling prices for computers and non-Apple smartphones will rise by roughly 10% this year. —Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 4 May 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