personal computer
Americannoun
noun
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A computer built around a microprocessor for use by an individual. Personal computers have their own operating systems, software, and peripherals, and can generally be linked to networks.
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Compare mainframe
Etymology
Origin of personal computer
First recorded in 1975–80
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Tremors in the market also shook chip-maker Intel, which saw its share price plummet 29% on Friday after the company reported weakness in its personal computer business.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 31, 2026
The Santa Clara-based chipmaker saw its stock plunge more than 30% Friday to roughly $62 per share after it reported a weaker fourth-quarter outlook and a slowdown in personal computer sales.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 30, 2026
On Wednesday, Microsoft and Nvidia unveiled the Surface Laptop Ultra, a personal computer the companies say is designed for artificial-intelligence workloads.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 7, 2026
He was an early champion of the Apple II and was known in the industry as the guy on Wall Street who took the personal computer seriously.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 25, 2026
At university, he had been brilliant with electronics, he fixed CD players that were considered lost causes, and his was the first personal computer Obinze had ever seen.
From "Americanah" by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
