# cpus

CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/cpus
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

the central parts of a computer that perform calculations and control how the machine works. You use this word when talking about the hardware that makes a computer run.

For teachers: the central processing units of a computer, responsible for executing instructions and performing the primary operations of the system. Often used in plural form to refer to the hardware components of a processor.

## Examples

- Modern CPUs can handle thousands of tasks at once.
- The engineer upgraded the server's CPUs to improve the speed of the database queries.
- As multi-core CPUs become more prevalent, software developers must optimize their code to ensure that all available processing power is utilized efficiently.

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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.