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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 rise of personal computers and the internet gave trading a fresh, gamified twist.
—Trent Hoerr, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025
The analysts cautioned that their 2026 earnings projections are already 10% ahead of consensus estimates, even without factoring in potential additional benefits from MediaTek’s collaboration with Nvidia on automotive and personal computer projects.
—Ganesh Rao, CNBC, 8 Jan. 2025
Previously, Reuters reported that Nvidia was working on a CPU for personal computers to challenge the consumer and business computer market dominance of Intel INTC.O, Advanced Micro Devices AMD.O and Qualcomm QCOM.O.
The Project DIGITS computer is not yet a mass-market device.
—Stephen Nellis, USA TODAY, 8 Jan. 2025
Like personal computers and the internet before it, AI may ultimately increase inequality.
—Greg Rosalsky, NPR, 7 Jan. 2025
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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 15 Jan. 2025.
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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