central processing unit

noun

plural central processing units
: the component of a computer system that performs the system's basic operations (such as processing data), that exchanges data with the system's memory or peripherals, and that manages the system's other components : cpu

Examples of central processing unit in a Sentence

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For general-purpose use, Microsoft already taps its own central processing units as well as silicon from Intel and AMD. — Jordan Novet, CNBC, 12 Oct. 2026 IonQ, a leading provider of quantum computing solutions globally, reached a major milestone after successfully demonstrating quantum error correction using a real-time decoder that can run on a single central processing unit (CPU). — Ameya Paleja, Interesting Engineering, 23 Sep. 2026 Speed Tablets have a central processing unit that controls its speed. — Bestreviews, Mercury News, 27 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for central processing unit

Word History

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of central processing unit was in 1956

Rhymes for central processing unit

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Central Park
central processing unit
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Cite this Entry

“Central processing unit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/central%20processing%20unit. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

central processing unit

noun
: CPU

More from Merriam-Webster on central processing unit

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about central processing unit

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