ENGLISH
REFERENCE

laptop

n. · adj.
US //ˈɫæpˌtɑp// UK //lˈæptɒp// lap·top
  1. 1 portable computer (n.)
    A2 Elementary Computing

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

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

    Example

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

    Example

    The executive carried a lightweight laptop to every meeting, ensuring she had immediate access to the company's cloud-based analytics.
  2. 2 designed for the lap (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Technical Computing

    describes something small enough to be used on your lap.

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

    Example

    The store sells various laptop accessories like bags and mice.

    Example

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

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

Word family

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