personal computer

American  

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

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personal computer British  

noun

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

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personal computer Scientific  

/ pûr′sə-nəl /

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

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personal computer Cultural  

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

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Etymology

Origin of personal computer

First recorded in 1975–80

Example Sentences

The firm has heard strong signals from personal computer manufacturers about Intel’s products at and since the CES tech conference, it said.

From Barron's

The firm has heard strong signals from personal computer manufacturers about Intel’s products at and since the CES tech conference, it said.

From Barron's

“I started to write down the basic requirements of a personal computer,” he said.

From The Wall Street Journal

They took her phone, a work and personal computer and a Garmin watch, the outlet said.

From BBC

Once-mighty tech companies that refused to accept the rise of the personal computer quickly disappeared.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• desktop computer
• laptop
• minicomputer
• workstation