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

I spent 17 years at the helm of the California Air Resources Board, and I am deeply disturbed by the potential co-opting of public input processes using forgery through automated tools.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026

Cost pressures intensified significantly in March, with the input price subindex accelerating to its highest level since March 2022, according to RatingDog.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 1, 2026

In a statement to Barron’s, Snap board chair Michael Lynton said the social media company “welcomes input from all shareholders and regularly engages with investors on strategy, capital allocation, and governance.”

From Barron's • Mar. 31, 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 get out the Holo and manage to input our grid coordinates and scan the tunnels.

From "Mockingjay" by Suzanne Collins

Related Words

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