Word
microprocessor
Phoneticsmi·cro·pro·ces·sor, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌmaɪkɹoʊˈpɹɑsɛsɝ/
UK/mˌaɪkɹəʊpɹˈəʊsɛsɐ/
Definition
n. a tiny computer chip that controls the operations of a device. It acts like the brain of a computer or phone, telling all the parts what to do.
n. an integrated circuit that contains the functions of a central processing unit of a computer. It serves as the primary component responsible for executing instructions and managing data flow within a system.
Examples
“The computer's microprocessor handles all the calculations.”
“Engineers are designing a new microprocessor that uses less power and runs faster than the previous generation.”
“The evolution of the microprocessor has fundamentally transformed the landscape of modern computing, enabling the miniaturization of complex systems that were once the size of entire rooms.”
Examples
simple
“The computer's microprocessor handles all the calculations.”
contextual
“Engineers are designing a new microprocessor that uses less power and runs faster than the previous generation.”
complex
“The evolution of the microprocessor has fundamentally transformed the landscape of modern computing, enabling the miniaturization of complex systems that were once the size of entire rooms.”
Real-World Examples
“This “cognitive revolution” only extended to organisms with brains – with neurons, the wetware version of the microprocessor.” “When his bosses found out he’d used a Fairchild microprocessor to power it, he was tasked with creating a gaming division within the company.” Etymology
From micro- + processor.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
- 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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englishreference.com/q/microprocessor