digital computer
3
3.7
- noun
- /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl kəmˈpjuːtər/
- Specialized
:
computadora digital
- the first digital computer
- a modern digital computer
- an electronic digital computer
Examples
-
For backup, we can set up a digital computer model.
Fiction book (1995) -
High-speed digital computers process information from a variety of sources, including satellites far above the Earth.
Academic text (1990) -
Before digital computers became readily available, engineers used a variety of devices to simulate reality.
Academic text (1995) -
The invention of the digital computer, integrated circuit, and microprocessor led to the personal computer with which we are so familiar today.
Academic text (2012) -
Jay Forster was working on a magnetic memory core for digital computers in Project Whirlwind.
-
The elementary particle of information used by modern digital computers is the bit—a register or memory element that can be in one of two distinct states, 0 or 1.
Academic text (1997) -
The first electronic digital computer was capable of performing calculations much faster than earlier mechanical devices.
-
She learned how to program her digital computer to handle complex tasks and run various applications.
-
In today's society, digital computers are essential for both personal and professional use.
Synonyms
3
3.7
A machine like a computer or calculator that works with information
1
2.4
A machine that uses electricity to work with information and do calculations by itself
1
4.4
A machine that does calculations by itself, like an early computer
1
3.7
A machine or part of a computer that quickly does calculations and handles information automatically
How Powerful
- Specialized
28
5.5
- Specialized
59
5.3
- Specialized
351
3.0
- Specialized
11
4.2
- Specialized
3
3.7
43
2.4
- Specialized
3
5.5
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'a computer that processes information using numeric/electronic digits' is directly and transparently derived from combining 'digital' (relating to numeric/electronic technology) with 'computer' (an electronic data-processing device). This is a straightforward adjective + noun composition common across languages and therefore readily understandable to a B1 learner who knows both constituent words.
Etymology
Digital computer comes from two simple ideas: digital comes from an old word for 'finger' because people used their fingers to count, and computer once meant a person who 'computes' or does calculations. So a digital computer is a machine that uses 'digits', often '0' and '1' today, which is why the phrase means a machine that uses numbers to work with information.