noun B2 Upper-Intermediate

microcomputer

my-kroh-kuhm-PYOO-tuhr

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Microcomputer (noun) means a microcomputer is a computer built around a single microprocessor, smaller than a minicomputer or a mainframe. Example: “Home users in the late twentieth century bought microcomputers for word processing and games.”

noun

chiefly historical A microcomputer is a computer built around a single microprocessor, smaller than a minicomputer or a mainframe.

"Home users in the late twentieth century bought microcomputers for word processing and games."

"The office replaced its old mainframe terminals with a network of microcomputers."

"Enthusiasts still collect early microcomputers as a hobby."

How to use microcomputer

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA microcomputer is a small computer built around a single microprocessor chip.

When to use it

The word now reads as slightly dated, since personal computer or PC is the usual modern term.

Memory tip

Don't confuse a microcomputer, a whole machine, with a microprocessor, the single chip inside it.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

microprocessor → minicomputer

Common pairings

home microcomputer early microcomputers microcomputer system microcomputer market

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “microcomputer” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Home users in the late twentieth century bought _____ for word processing and games.

Etymology

The word joins the prefix micro- to computer. Its first recorded use dates from around 1956.

Origin: English

Synonyms

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personal computer PC micro

Related words

computer PC micro desktop

Rhymes for microcomputer

outer router neuter computer commuter supercomputer

See all rhymes for microcomputer →

Frequently asked questions

What is a microcomputer?

A microcomputer is a computer built around a single microprocessor chip. It is smaller than a minicomputer or a mainframe.

Is a microcomputer the same as a personal computer?

The terms are closely related and often used as synonyms, since most personal computers are microcomputers.

Is microcomputer still a common term?

It is now chiefly a historical term, mostly used to describe computers from the era when microprocessor-based machines were new.

What is the meaning of microcomputer?

"microcomputer" (noun) means a microcomputer is a computer built around a single microprocessor, smaller than a minicomputer or a mainframe.

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