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

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 legacy part of AMD’s data center business — sales of traditional central processing units in servers — had a good quarter, too. Jeff Marks, CNBC, 30 Oct. 2024 By leaning into making central processing units (CPUs) for laptops and PCs, and graphics processors, used in gaming consoles and PCs, Su brought AMD onto more stable footing, strengthening tactical partnerships with companies including Sony and Microsoft. Ayesha Javed, TIME, 29 Sep. 2024 Intel is a very distant third to AMD in graphics processing units (GPU), and Arm Holdings is gunning to replace any Intel central processing units (CPUs) that AMD or Nvidia can’t replace. Jim Cramer, CNBC, 22 Sep. 2024 Illustration of the China and U.S. flag on a central processing unit. Dylan Butts, CNBC, 6 Sep. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near central processing unit

Cite this Entry

“Central processing unit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/central%20processing%20unit. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

central processing unit

noun
: CPU

More from Merriam-Webster on central processing unit

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!