personal computer

noun

1. a compact computer that uses a microprocessor and is designed for individual use, as by a person in an office or at home or school, for such applications as word processing, data management, financial analysis, or computer games. PC

personal computer

noun

1. a small inexpensive computer used in word processing, playing computer games, etc

personal computer

1. 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.

2. Compare mainframe

personal computer

1. A computer typically used in the home, office, or school. Also a generic term for a PC Microsoft® operating system.

Word History and Origins

Origin of personal computer¹

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

As personal computer use mushroomed in the 1980s and ’90s, a mystery unfolded: Where was the productivity growth that so many anticipated?

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In the 1980s, Jon-Perse acquires his first personal computer at the same time that he is becoming enamored with classical Arabic verse, particularly a form of love poetry called the ghazal.

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Nvidia’s chips are still called graphics processing units though their use has gone well beyond driving personal computer monitors.

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People started lining up outside appliance outlets and department stores, risking life and limb to get their sweaty hands on one of the limited-quantity, only-while-supplies-last TVs, power tools, personal computers or designer camisoles.

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Personal-systems revenue came in at $10.4 billion, up 8% from the prior year, driven in part by rising demand for AI personal computers and the introduction of the Windows 11 operating system.

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Related Words

• desktop computer www.thesaurus.com
• laptop 
• minicomputer 
• workstation