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

The duffel bag also features a spacious interior with a padded laptop sleeve and a few slip pockets, along with a front exterior pocket for easy access. —Melony Forcier, Travel + Leisure, 6 Feb. 2026

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

Noun

But in the morning, businesspeople filled the restaurant with laptops out, AirPods in, and coffee in hand. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 7 Mar. 2026

Critics say the danger faced by agents whose names are made public is overblown, almost always limited to harsh and violent words lobbed from behind a laptop or phone screen. —James Queally, Los Angeles Times, 6 Mar. 2026

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