# CPU core

CEFR B2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cpu-core
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

one of the small processing units inside a computer's main chip. Having more of these allows your computer to do several tasks at the same time without slowing down.

For teachers: an independent processing unit within a central processing unit (CPU) that can execute instructions and perform calculations. Modern processors typically contain multiple cores to facilitate parallel processing and improve multitasking performance.

## Examples

- When you run multiple heavy applications at once, the operating system distributes the workload across each available CPU core.
- While clock speed was once the primary measure of performance, the number of CPU cores is now equally critical for software designed to handle concurrent execution threads.

## Usage notes

- Often used in the plural when discussing hardware specifications.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.