computer

IPA/kəmˈpjuːtə(r)/
KK[kəmpjˈutɚ]IPA/kəmˈpjuːtər/

computer — noun

  • computersingular
  • computersplural

1. A programmable device that stores, processes, and retrieves information, used fo

1.nounA1
Definition

A programmable device that stores, processes, and retrieves information, used for working, communicating, accessing the internet, playing games, and controlling other equipment.

Example

Eitan uses his computer every evening to write code for his class projects.

possessive + computer + daily routine activity

The school bought thirty new computers for the library this year.

collocation: buy + computers

Common collocations
  • personal computer
  • desktop computer
  • laptop computer
  • computer screen
  • computer keyboard
  • computer program
  • computer system
  • use a computer
  • turn on the computer
  • shut down the computer
  • on the computer
  • by computer
Synonyms
  • PC

    short for personal computer; usually implies a desktop or laptop running Windows

  • laptop

    a portable computer small enough to rest on your lap

  • desktop

    a computer designed to stay in one place on a desk

  • machine

    informal term for a computer, especially a powerful one

Grammar Patterns

a computer

computers

the computer

Usage Note

Frequently paired with verbs like 'use', 'turn on/off', 'start up', and 'shut down'. The plural 'computers' is common when referring to the device category in general. In informal British English, 'computer' is sometimes shortened to 'comp'.

Common Mistakes

I play computer.
I play on the computer.' or 'I play computer games.
'play' needs a preposition or a direct object like 'games'.
Computer is very useful.
Computers are very useful.' or 'The computer is very useful.
A countable singular noun needs an article.

Word family

Synonym discussion

Sense: noun/1

All four words refer to computing devices, but they differ in form and usage. A 'desktop' is a non-portable computer that stays on a desk, usually with a separate screen, keyboard, and mouse. A 'laptop' is a portable computer with a built-in screen and keyboard, designed to be used on your lap or a table. 'PC' (personal computer) is a general term that typically covers both desktops and laptops running Windows or Linux, though Mac users often say 'Mac' instead. A 'tablet' (like an iPad or Samsung Galaxy Tab) has a touchscreen and is smaller and lighter than a laptop, but usually has less processing power. If you need to write long documents or run heavy software, a desktop or laptop is best. For browsing the web or watching videos on the go, a tablet may be enough.

desktop ↗laptop ↗PC ↗tablet ↗

Common collocations

Nouns

Phrases

  • personal computer
  • desktop computer
  • laptop computer
  • computer science
  • computer game
  • computer user
  • computer skills

Prepositions

  • on the computer
  • at the computer
  • by computer
  • with a computer

Etymology

LatinFrenchEnglish

The word 'computer' first appeared in English in the 1600s, meaning a person who performs mathematical calculations (from the Latin 'computare' — 'to calculate'). As calculating machines developed in the 1800s, the meaning shifted to the machines themselves. The modern electronic computer as we know it began to emerge in the 1940s with devices like ENIAC.