English Reference
noun · adjective

laptop

n. · adj.
US /ˈɫæpˌtɑp/ UK /lˈæptɒp/ lap·top UK spelling laptops

  1. 01 A2 Elementary Computing

    n.a portable computer that has a screen and keyboard attached together.

    n.a portable personal computer featuring an integrated screen and keyboard, designed for use in varied locations.

    Simple

    She opened her laptop in the café to finish her homework.

    In context

    The executive carried a lightweight laptop to every meeting, ensuring she had immediate access to the company's cloud-based analytics.

  2. 02 C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    adj.describes something small enough to be used on your lap.

    adj.denoting an item of equipment designed to be small and light enough for use on a person's lap.

    Simple

    The store sells various laptop accessories like bags and mice.

    In context

    Early laptop designs were significantly bulkier than modern tablets, often weighing several kilograms despite their portable classification.


From lap (“upper legs of a seated person”) + top, modeled after desktop.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated