-
- To save this word, you'll need to log in.
operating system
noun
: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of programs (as by assigning storage space in memory and controlling input and output functions)
Examples of operating system in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Productivity & Content Creation Tests Our Mac testing isn't an exact copy of our Windows testing protocols, due to the differences in operating system, chip architecture, and software catalog.
—Brian Westover, PCMAG, 7 Nov. 2024
In classical computing, different vendors specialize in different components like chips, operating systems and applications.
—Yuval Boger, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024
The firm developed HarmonyOS, its own mobile operating system, and recently launched HarmonyOS NEXT, which marks Huawei’s separation from the Android ecosystem.
—Alena Botros, Fortune Asia, 1 Nov. 2024
As Apple pushes its version of the technology, Google is building AI into its Android operating system and forcing everyone to look at AI Overviews at the top of virtually every Google Search.
—Adam Clark Estes, Vox, 1 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for operating system
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1961, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near operating system
Cite this Entry
“Operating system.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/operating%20system. Accessed 17 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
operating system
noun
: software that controls the operation of a computer and directs the processing of the user's programs (as by controlling input and output functions)
More from Merriam-Webster on operating system
Nglish: Translation of operating system for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about operating system
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share