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

See Examples For:

personal computer

Monday's announcement instead focuses on a new CPU, or central processing unit, which acts like the brain of a personal computer.

From Barron's ● Jun. 1, 2026

The idea of artificial intelligence, let alone a personal computer, was a fantasy at best.

From Salon ● Mar. 26, 2026

The personal computer didn’t just change what existing businesses did, for example, but gave rise to entirely new industries.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Mar. 24, 2026

The research lab was already known to Silicon Valley cognoscenti for having invented a personal computer called the Alto and the precursor to the Ethernet networking system.

From Los Angeles Times ● Mar. 24, 2026

If January 1975 was the dawn of the personal computer age, then who would be in the best position to take advantage of it?

From "Outliers" by Malcolm Gladwell

Related Words

• desktop computer
• laptop
• minicomputer
• workstation