ENGLISH
REFERENCE

processor

n. countable
C1 Advanced Oxford US //ˈpɹɑˌsɛsɝ// UK //pɹˈəʊsɛsɐ// pro·ces·sor

n. the main part of a computer that follows instructions and handles data. It acts like the brain of the machine to make programs run.

n. the hardware component within a computer that executes instructions and performs arithmetic, logic, and input/output operations. Often referred to as the central processing unit or CPU.


SIMPLE

A faster processor makes your computer run programs more quickly.

CONTEXTUAL

When choosing a new laptop, you should check the processor speed to ensure it can handle video editing software.

COMPLEX

Modern multi-core processors allow a single machine to handle several demanding tasks simultaneously by distributing the workload across multiple independent execution units.

Synonyms
Origin

Recorded since 1909, from process + -or.

Usage

Commonly used in the context of computing, though it can also refer to a person or company that prepares goods, such as a food processor.

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