Word
mainframe
Phoneticsmain·frame, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈmeɪnˌfɹeɪm/
UK/mˈeɪnfɹeɪm/
Definition
n. a very large and powerful computer used by big companies or governments to handle huge amounts of data.
n. a high-performance computer system designed for high-volume data processing and critical applications requiring extreme reliability.
Examples
“The bank uses a mainframe to process millions of transactions every day.”
“While many companies have moved to the cloud, some still rely on a central mainframe for their most sensitive financial records.”
“The transition from legacy mainframe architecture to distributed cloud systems remains a significant technical challenge for many established government agencies.”
Examples
simple
“The bank uses a mainframe to process millions of transactions every day.”
contextual
“While many companies have moved to the cloud, some still rely on a central mainframe for their most sensitive financial records.”
complex
“The transition from legacy mainframe architecture to distributed cloud systems remains a significant technical challenge for many established government agencies.”
Usage
Often used as a modifier before other nouns, such as 'mainframe computer' or 'mainframe system'.
Real-World Examples
“Networking technology has been around since the dawn of the computer, critically connecting mainframes so they can share data.” Etymology
From main + frame.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/mainframe