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

In a time when almost everything is getting more expensive, this deal on the M5 MacBook Air has me hopeful about how laptop pricing will play out the rest of the year. —Luke Larsen, Wired News, 27 Apr. 2026

Look for one with a padded laptop sleeve for your tablet or e-reader loaded with scripts, episode guides, or location maps. —Lauren Schuster, Charlotte Observer, 19 Mar. 2026

Noun

Everything is on a grand scale, and the mostly corporate or group crowd is busy tapping away on laptops or conducting deals in the lounge. —Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 14 May 2026

The search warrant shows that police seized Potter's iPhone and laptop. —Mark Guarino, ABC News, 13 May 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