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
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Even top-of-the-line phones are destined to become obsolete—still able to perform the basic functions like phone calls and texts, but stuck with an old operating system and failing apps. Andrew Moseman, The Atlantic, 21 Oct. 2025 Ensure your operating system, apps and antivirus software are current. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 19 Oct. 2025 In addition, about 90% of the laptops and PCs in China still use the Windows operating system, according to Capital Economics. Jason Ma, Fortune, 18 Oct. 2025 Microsoft unveiled a new category of PC that features generative artificial intelligence tools built into the Windows operating system. Jordan Novet, CNBC, 16 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for operating system

Word History

First Known Use

1961, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of operating system was in 1961

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Cite this Entry

“Operating system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/operating%20system. Accessed 24 Oct. 2025.

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)

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