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

District officials took the unprecedented step of shutting down all district computer systems to limit the damage. — Howard Blume, Los Angeles Times, 17 Oct. 2026

The agency used computer modeling to estimate cancer risks for nearby residents, but not for railyard workers. — Madison Smalstig, Sacbee.com, 17 Oct. 2026

Rows of officials sat behind computer screens while giant displays tracked the storm and the state’s response. — Christopher Spata, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026

Authorities also searched the shooter’s home Thursday, with investigators recovering computers and other electronic devices, according to the source. — Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2026

Word History

Etymology

see compute entry 1

First Known Use

1613, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing computer

• analog computer
• computer science
• digital computer
• home computer
• hybrid computer
• laptop 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