operating system

noun

: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of programs (as by assigning storage space in memory and controlling input and output functions)

Examples of operating system in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

If strategic recovery truly functions as a leadership operating system, implementation begins with three commitments. — Gerald J. Leonard, Forbes.com, 6 Aug. 2026

Administrators rely on them to monitor the physical status of large fleets of servers and to perform a variety of tasks, including rebooting machines, installing updates, and even reinstalling operating systems. — Dan Goodin, ArsTechnica, 5 Aug. 2026

The program rewards researchers with bounties of up to $5 million for successful reporting of serious vulnerabilities in Apple’s operating systems, services, or devices. — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 5 Aug. 2026

Keep your operating system, browser and security software updated as well. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 5 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for operating system

• cryptosystem
• ecosystem
• intersystem
• multisystem
• photosystem
• subsystem

Kids Definition

operating system

noun

: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of the user's programs (as by controlling input and output functions)