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

Apple’s latest operating system, iOS 26, was released in September and protects users against both hacking campaigns, according to the company. —Kevin Collier, NBC news, 18 Mar. 2026

Instead of replacing your hardware, upgrading the operating system can give your computer a fresh start while unlocking modern features and security protections. —Stackcommerce Team, PC Magazine, 17 Mar. 2026

In November 1985, the company launched Windows, a graphical operating environment layered on top of its operating system MS-DOS, which is primitive by modern standards, but radical for its time. —Catherina Gioino, Fortune, 13 Mar. 2026

The bad actors targeted Stryker's devices running Microsoft's Windows operating system, including cell phones and laptops. —Paulina Likos, CNBC, 12 Mar. 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)