input

American  

[in-poot] / ˈɪnˌpʊt /

noun

1. something that is put in.

2. the act or process of putting in.

3. the power or energy supplied to a machine.

4. the current or voltage applied to an electric or electronic circuit or device.

5. Computers.

   1. data to be entered into a computer for processing.

   2. the process of introducing data into the internal storage of a computer.

6. contribution of information, ideas, opinions, or the like.

   Before making a decision we need your input.

7. the available data for solving a technical problem.

8. Scot. a monetary contribution, as to charity.

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adjective

1. of or relating to data or equipment used for input.

   The goal is to reduce input costs.

verb (used with object)

inputted, input, inputting

1. Computers. to enter (data) into a computer for processing.

2. to contribute (ideas, information, or suggestions) to a project, discussion, etc.

input British  

/ ˈɪnˌpʊt /

noun

1. the act of putting in

2. that which is put in

3. (often plural) a resource required for industrial production, such as capital goods, labour services, raw materials, etc

4. electronics

   1. the signal or current fed into a component or circuit

   2. the terminals, or some other point, to which the signal is applied

5. computing the data fed into a computer from a peripheral device

6. (modifier) of or relating to electronic, computer, or other input

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verb

1. (tr) to insert (data) into a computer

Etymology

Origin of input

First recorded in 1745–55; in- ¹ + put

Example Sentences

By reducing the need for constant human input, robots could move more freely across terrain, analyze rocks quickly, and gather valuable data.

From Science Daily • Apr. 8, 2026

The global economy is far larger, more diversified and less reliant on energy as an input versus 20 years ago, he says.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 6, 2026

The ISM prices-paid component for March, a gauge of input costs, rose to its highest level since mid-2022 when it was released last week.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 5, 2026

"We're still whispering up the chain as much as we can to make sure that if they are indeed reviewing it, we can give input."

From BBC • Apr. 4, 2026

I don’t actually need their input, but it’s an excuse to start a new conversation.

From "South of Somewhere" by Kalena Miller

Related Words

• aid
• consultation
• encouragement
• guidance
• help
• information
• instruction
• judgment
• lesson
• news
• opinion
• prescription
• proposal
• recommendation
• suggestion
• tip
• view
• warning
• word