microprocessor

noun

mi·​cro·​pro·​ces·​sor ˌmī-krō-ˈprä-ˌse-sər How to pronounce microprocessor (audio)
-ˈprō-
: a computer processor contained on an integrated-circuit chip
also : such a processor with memory and associated circuits

Examples of microprocessor in a Sentence

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In high school, Gates and Allen predicted that microprocessors — small computer chips — would eventually turn bulky, expensive computers into small, affordable, personal machines accessible to everyone. Tom Huddleston Jr., CNBC, 14 Feb. 2025 Lesson Two: There’s More Than One Way To Create Value Intel’s success in transitioning from memory chips to microprocessors wasn’t just about abandoning a failing product. Robert Pearl, Forbes, 16 Dec. 2024 Our prototype lactate fuel cell generated around a milliwatt, enough to successfully power the radio, a small microprocessor, and peripheral components, including a temperature sensor and voltage converter. Patrick Mercier, IEEE Spectrum, 18 June 2020 Long needed: more than 1.5 trillion chips are manufactured worldwide each year, and America’s share has sunk to 12%, and even lower in advanced microprocessors. Eli Amdur, Forbes, 30 Dec. 2024 See All Example Sentences for microprocessor

Word History

First Known Use

1969, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of microprocessor was in 1969

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Cite this Entry

“Microprocessor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/microprocessor. Accessed 12 Apr. 2025.

Kids Definition

microprocessor

noun
mi·​cro·​pro·​ces·​sor ˌmī-krō-ˈpräs-ˌes-ər How to pronounce microprocessor (audio)
-ˈprōs-
: a cpu contained on an integrated-circuit chip

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