A1noun1K

Computer

UK /["/kəmˈpjuːtə(r)/"]/US /["/kəmˈpjuːtər/"]/

Definition

an electronic machine that can store, organize and find information, do processes with numbers and other data, and control other machines

In simple words: A machine that can store and process information.

Examples

  • I use my computer to complete my homework.
  • The computer processed the data very quickly.
  • He built his own computer from scratch.
  • Many people can’t go a day without their computer.
  • She turned off her computer after finishing the project.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Appropriate in discussions about technology, education, and everyday tasks. Avoid using in slang-heavy or overly casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'compute' + 'er' — the one that computes calculations.

Collocations

  • fast
  • high-speed
  • powerful
  • access
  • operate
  • run
  • run
  • work
  • hold something
  • network
  • program
  • system
  • on (a/​the) computer

Synonyms

  • PC
  • laptop
  • desktop
  • machine
  • device

Antonyms

  • human
  • person

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'laptop' which is a type of computer.
  • Using 'computer' as a verb (it's only a noun).
  • Incorrectly spelling 'computer' as 'computor'.