analog computer

noun

: a computer that operates with numbers represented by directly measurable quantities (such as voltages or rotations) compare digital computer, hybrid computer

Examples of analog computer in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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And the tide-predicting machine is an example of an early analog computer that was much more useful than Babbage’s difference engine but not nearly as well known. IEEE Spectrum, 2 June 2024 In collaborative research out of Japan and Switzerland, scientists have taken an important step towards a next generation of analog computers by creating new types of logic gates based on spin waves. IEEE Spectrum, 17 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1948, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of analog computer was in 1948

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Cite this Entry

“Analog computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/analog%20computer. Accessed 28 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

analog computer

noun
: a computer that works with numbers represented by directly measurable quantities (as voltages or resistances) compare digital computer

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