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

The other occurred in 2023 and was caused by a major computer outage. — Emily Holshouser, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 Nov. 2026

Zwonitzer was subpoenaed, had his computer taken, faced the prospect of criminal charges, and was referred by House Republicans for contempt of Congress. — Amy Davidson Sorkin, New Yorker, 14 Nov. 2026

The error prompted a computer outage that lasted approximately an hour and a half, Department of Transportation officials said at the time. — Jay Blackman, NBC news, 14 Nov. 2026

This marked the first nationwide ground stop since January 2023, when a key FAA computer system malfunctioned. — News Editor, CBS News, 14 Nov. 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