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

Snapchat Board Chair Michael Lynton said the company welcomes shareholder input and regularly discusses strategy, capital allocation, and governance with shareholders.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 31, 2026

Labor will take 60 days of comments on its new proposal, then consider the input before adopting a final rule.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

“This is different than anything we’ve experienced before, in that it is not occurring in a single market, and that it is something that is a critical input to growers around the world,” she said.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 29, 2026

Unlike modern data centers that require significant electricity and cooling, ceramic-based storage can preserve information without any ongoing energy input, helping reduce environmental impact.

From Science Daily • Mar. 29, 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