quantum computer

noun

: a computer that takes advantage of the quantum properties of qubits to perform certain types of calculation extremely quickly compared to conventional computers
quantum computing noun
A "geek at heart," Samet, 34, is fascinated by quantum computing, a still-emerging field that involves the behavior of subatomic particles in computing. —Karen Breslau

Examples of quantum computer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The next compute divide may not separate enterprises that possess quantum computers from those that do not. — Rajjie Sarmey, Forbes.com, 16 Oct. 2026 For example, using a quantum computer to break the current RSA-2048 encryption employed in website security, banking and electronic ID cards would require magic states that would fail only once in 10 billion tries. — Jacek Krywko, Scientific American, 15 Oct. 2026 The problem is further complicated by the fact that each magic state can be used only once, meaning quantum computers must continuously produce new ones to carry out operations. — Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 15 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for quantum computer

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quantum computer was in 1982

Rhymes for quantum computer

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Browse Nearby Words

quantum chromodynamics
quantum computer
quantum dot
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Cite this Entry

“Quantum computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantum%20computer. Accessed 20 Oct. 2026.

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