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

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

From Barron's

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.

From The Wall Street Journal

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

From Barron's

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.

From The Wall Street Journal

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.

From Barron's

Related Words

• desktop computer
• laptop
• minicomputer
• workstation