central processing unit

Meaning

1. 1nouncountablecomputing

   The main chip in a computer that carries out program instructions and performs the calculations needed to run software.

   Grammar: Usually shortened to CPU: the central processing unit or the CPU.

   Patterns

   • the central processing unit of something
   • a faster central processing unit

   The central processing unit executes each instruction in the program.

   A new laptop with a faster central processing unit will open large files more quickly.

   Overheating can damage the central processing unit if the fan stops.

Word forms

Common combinations

powerful central processing unit

Video editing needs a powerful central processing unit.

central processing unit speed

The central processing unit speed is measured in gigahertz.

overheating central processing unit

An overheating central processing unit slows the whole machine.

upgrade the central processing unit

He decided to upgrade the central processing unit rather than buy a new computer.

Synonyms and how they differ

CPU

CPU is the standard abbreviation and is used far more often in speech and writing.

processor

Processor is a shorter everyday word that can also mean other chips, such as a graphics processor.

microprocessor

A microprocessor is a CPU built on a single chip, so the term stresses its construction.

chip

Chip is a loose, informal word for any small electronic component, not just the main one.

Word family

process verb

to handle data or instructions

processor noun

a device that processes data

processing noun

the handling of data

multiprocessing noun

using more than one processor at once

Commonly confused: central processing unit or graphics processing unit?

Practice

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