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personal computer
noun
: a general-purpose computer equipped with a microprocessor and designed to run especially commercial software (such as a word processor or Internet browser) for an individual user
Examples of personal computer in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The aim of putting a personal computer in every classroom.
—David Phelan, Forbes, 11 Dec. 2024
Laptops, any type of personal computers and tablets.
—Ed Masley, The Arizona Republic, 9 Dec. 2024
While companies such as Microsoft, Apple, Intel, Dell and Lenovo have also heavily marketed new lineups of personal computers capable of performing GenAI tasks, consumers have yet to perk up to the sales pitch, said Ryan Reith, an IDC program vice president for mobile devices.
—Jonathan Vanian, CNBC, 27 Nov. 2024
Michael Scheuer, who had been fired in June, is accused of using his personal computer to hack the menu system and target 14 Disney employees' computer accounts — allegedly even visiting the residence of one of the victims, according to an affidavit by FBI Special Agent Timothy Callinan.
—Caitlin O'Kane, CBS News, 31 Oct. 2024
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Word History
First Known Use
1959, in the meaning defined above
Time Traveler
The first known use of personal computer was
in 1959
Dictionary Entries Near personal computer
Cite this Entry
“Personal computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/personal%20computer. Accessed 21 Dec. 2024.
Kids Definition
personal computer
noun
: a small general-purpose computer with a microprocessor
More from Merriam-Webster on personal computer
Nglish: Translation of personal computer for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about personal computer
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