briefcase computer
- noun
- /ˈbrifˌkeɪs kəmˈpjuːtər/
- Archaic
:
computadora de maletín
- In the 1980s, briefcase computers were considered revolutionary for business travel.
Examples
-
The engineer carried a briefcase computer to the job site for instant data analysis.
-
He carried a briefcase computer to the meeting.
-
He opened the briefcase computer and began entering financial data on the spot.
-
My briefcase computers are outdated now.
-
In the 1980s, many business professionals relied on a briefcase computer for presentations while traveling.
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Her briefcase computer allowed her to work on projects even when she was away from the office.
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The new model of briefcase computer was lightweight and made mobile computing convenient for salespeople.
Synonyms
309
1.0
A small, light computer you can use on your lap
30
2.5
A small portable computer you carry and use on battery power
17
1.3
A small, light machine you can carry to use for work or study
4
2.7
A small computer you can carry to use in different places
3
2.8
A small light portable computer like a laptop
Antonyms
How Portable
227
1.8
286
2.7
309
1.0
- Archaic
10
1.7
- Specialized
59
5.3
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly and compositionally derived from 'briefcase' (a flat case) + 'computer' (an electronic device): a computer housed in/like a briefcase. This follows normal noun–noun compounding patterns and would be understandable to a B1 learner who knows both constituents, even if the term is somewhat dated or rare.
Etymology
Briefcase computer comes from the clear picture of a computer placed inside a briefcase so people could carry it and open it to work. So, the term means 'a portable computer in a briefcase', especially the early machines business people took with them.