laptop

1 of 2

adjective

lap·​top ˈlap-ˌtäp How to pronounce laptop (audio)
: of a size and design that makes operation and use on one's lap convenient compare desktop

laptop

2 of 2

noun

: a portable microcomputer having its main components (such as processor, keyboard, and display screen) integrated into a single unit capable of battery-powered operation

Examples of laptop in a Sentence

Noun He uses a laptop for business when he travels.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Adjective
Despite the numerous outlets that would be great for laptop work, most of the other customers were chatting with friends instead. Endia Fontanez, AZCentral.com, 22 Aug. 2025 The 2-in-1 design can be used in laptop mode or tablet mode, and while the battery life could be better, the performance is smooth. Louryn Strampe, Wired News, 16 Aug. 2025
Noun
Open your laptop and start chipping away at your to-do list? Angela Haupt, Time, 21 Aug. 2025 The act restricts the use of other personal electronic devices as well, including laptops, media players, cameras and smartwatches. Arkansas Online, 21 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for laptop

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1984, in the meaning defined above

Noun

1984, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of laptop was in 1984

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Laptop.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/laptop. Accessed 31 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

laptop

1 of 2 adjective
lap·​top -ˌtäp How to pronounce laptop (audio)
: of a size and design that makes use on one's lap convenient

laptop

2 of 2 noun
: a portable computer that is small enough to use on one's lap, has its main components (as keyboard and display screen) combined in one unit, and can run on battery power

More from Merriam-Webster on laptop

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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