coprocessor

noun co·pro·ces·sor \ (ˌ)kō-ˈprä-se-sər , -ˈprō- \

Definition of coprocessor

:an extra processor in a computer that is designed to perform specialized tasks (such as mathematical calculations)

Recent Examples of coprocessor from the Web

The coprocessor's chief job will be implementing deep neural networks — a machine learning technique with a structure that loosely resembles the human brain — into the HoloLens' core processing unit.

— lisa eadicicco, Time, "A 'Smart Headset' War Between Microsoft and Google Could Revolutionize the Workplace," 24 July 2017
Coprocessors are gaining ground in the Top500, with 71 systems using Nvidia GPUs, 14 using Xeon Phi, and three using both.

— peter sayer, PCWorld, "Mid-range models ring the changes in Top500 supercomputer ranking," 19 June 2017
For example, a security or networking coprocessor can be tacked onto the core design.

— agam shah, PCWorld, "Open-source chip mimics Linux's path to take on closed x86 and ARM CPUs," 4 May 2017
The schematic is for a NAND flash component, and mentions a ‘PN65V’ model number chip, an NFC chip made by NXP Corp (a company that makes NFC chips for other smartphone manufacturers as well as the iPhone 5s’ motion coprocessor).

— christina bonnington, WIRED, "This Week’s Apple Rumors, Ranked From Dumbest to Most Plausible," 22 Aug. 2014

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'coprocessor.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.