quantum computer

noun

: a computer that takes advantage of the quantum properties of qubits to perform certain types of calculation extremely quickly compared to conventional computers

quantum computing noun

A "geek at heart," Samet, 34, is fascinated by quantum computing, a still-emerging field that involves the behavior of subatomic particles in computing.

—Karen Breslau

Examples of quantum computer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The Pentagon’s latest initiative comes alongside additional support for companies attempting to build useful quantum computers, the South China Morning Post reported. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 10 Oct. 2026

While today’s classical computers cannot practically break these systems, a sufficiently powerful quantum computer could eventually do so using algorithms such as Shor’s. — Amit Sinha, Forbes.com, 5 Oct. 2026

Future quantum applications Some technological applications that take advantage of particles’ quantum behaviors are truly futuristic, such as quantum computers. — Sophya Garashchuk, The Conversation, 1 Oct. 2026

Superconducting quantum computers only work when chilled to a hair above absolute zero, requiring the whole machine to sit inside an ultra-cold refrigerator called a cryostat, where space is tight and cooling is expensive. — New Atlas, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for quantum computer

• microcomputer
• minicomputer
• supercomputer
• commuter
• polluter
• recruiter
• neuter
• pewter
• router
• scooter
• shooter
• suitor