personal computer

noun

: a general-purpose computer equipped with a microprocessor and designed to run especially commercial software (such as a word processor or Internet browser) for an individual user

Examples of personal computer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Keep your main network just for personal computers and phones. Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 13 June 2025 Through this collaborative program, anyone can download freely available software from the GIMPS website to search for Mersenne prime numbers on their personal computers. Jeremiah Bartz, The Conversation, 30 May 2025 However, tariffs could raise consumer personal computer prices by as much as 50%, according to WCCFTech. Peter Cohan, Forbes.com, 10 Apr. 2025 Trade groups have also warned of higher prices at grocery stores and hikes on electronics such as personal computers. Samantha Subin, CNBC, 7 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for personal computer

Word History

First Known Use

1959, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of personal computer was in 1959

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Cite this Entry

“Personal computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/personal%20computer. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

personal computer

noun
: a small general-purpose computer with a microprocessor

More from Merriam-Webster on personal computer

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