laptop

1 of 2

adjective

lap·​top ˈlap-ˌtäp 

: of a size and design that makes operation and use on one's lap convenient compare desktop

laptop

2 of 2

noun

: a portable microcomputer having its main components (such as processor, keyboard, and display screen) integrated into a single unit capable of battery-powered operation

Examples of laptop in a Sentence

Noun

He uses a laptop for business when he travels.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

At the same time, both rivals rely on external, laptop-style adapters. —PC Magazine, 16 Oct. 2025

Business travelers will appreciate the easy-access front compartment, which features a padded laptop sleeve and pockets to keep your passport and other travel documents in easy reach. —Sophie Dodd, Travel + Leisure, 8 Oct. 2025

Noun

The committee says in August 2023, the then-Chief Information Security Officer, Director of Technical Operations, and the Lead IT Support Services Technician swapped out MCCA employee laptops for new IT equipment in the midst of two open investigations into the Authority. —Tim Dunn, Boston Herald, 7 Dec. 2025

The visually upgraded version presents Mad Men in the now-standard widescreen format, something all modern TVs, laptops, tablets, and phones are geared toward, as opposed to the boxy televisions of old. —David Sims, The Atlantic, 6 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1984, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1984, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for laptop

• atop
• backdrop
• backstop
• bebop
• blacktop
• bookshop
• clatsop
• desktop
• eavesdrop
• estop
• hardtop
• hilltop

Kids Definition

laptop

1 of 2 adjective

lap·​top -ˌtäp 

: of a size and design that makes use on one's lap convenient

laptop

2 of 2 noun

: a portable computer that is small enough to use on one's lap, has its main components (as keyboard and display screen) combined in one unit, and can run on battery power