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

My father taught me to burn disks, to back up files, and to discharge static electricity before handling a computer’s delicate innards. —Julian Lucas, New Yorker, 20 Apr. 2026

As with any field related to computers, the use of artificial intelligence affects GIS, too. —Doug Ross, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2026

The group based its calculations on how much the jets were bent by the stellar wind as well as computer modeling. —Marcia Dunn, Los Angeles Times, 20 Apr. 2026

Acer and Asus have even been prohibited from selling PCs in Germany since January due to a Munich Regional Court ruling that the companies’ computers infringe on one of Nokia’s HEVC patents. —ArsTechnica, 20 Apr. 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