computer science

American  

noun

1. the science that deals with the theory and methods of processing information in digital computers, the design of computer hardware and software, and the applications of computers.

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computer science British  

noun

1. the study of computers and their application

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computer science Scientific  

1. The study of the design and operation of computer hardware and software, and of the application of computer technology to science, business, and the arts.

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Other Word Forms

• computer scientist
  noun

Etymology

Origin of computer science

First recorded in 1970–75

Example Sentences

She studied computer science at Mills College, then worked in tech consulting in the Bay Area and eventually became the CTO of an ag-tech company.

From Los Angeles Times • Jul. 1, 2026

Wisniewski, who studied computer science and business, isn’t blind to the risks, especially compared with sharing a streaming service.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 28, 2026

Unsubstantiated rumours have swirled on social media claiming that students in Stanford's coveted computer science programme have had trouble finding jobs.

From BBC • Jun. 23, 2026

This was considered among the most important unsolved problems in combinatorics, a prominent branch of math and computer science dealing with finite objects and arrangements.

From Slate • Jun. 22, 2026

“N-no, I organize everything. Math notes, computer science notes, bio notes. Oh, and my MTG cards.”

From "From Twinkle, with Love" by Sandhya Menon

Related Words

• artificial intelligence
• computer technology
• data processing
• information technology
• robotics