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motherboard

motherboard

18 4.6
Main board inside a computer that holds important parts and connects other devices
  • noun
  • /ˈmʌðərbɔrd/
  • Specialized
translation icon : placa base
  • We've got a cache failure in the motherboard.
  • motherboard connectors
  • motherboard and CPU
  • computer motherboard

Our old desktop PC now boasts a modern motherboard and processor.

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Examples

  • Which means it's gonna be up to us to get new motherboards, drives and software to Mars as fast as we can.

  • The technician carefully installed the motherboard into the computer case, ensuring all connectors were secure.

  • And how exactly am I going to put this motherboard in this box?

  • You can see the tracks of the motherboard on the case.

  • You should see the red wire attached to the motherboard.

  • So we'll now just take the motherboard screws and put them in.

  • OK, so all the motherboard standoffs are in.

  • Not only would you have to replace the motherboard, but most likely memory, CPU cooler, etc.

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  • The only stock I have is an actual AM3+ motherboard that wants a decent chip.

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  • In the future, not only processors but motherboards will have fewer and fewer components.

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Synonyms

MB
vsmotherboard
  • Jargon
4 3.5

The main circuit board inside a computer that holds the processor and memory

is the full technical name rather than an abbreviation
CPU board
vsmotherboard
  • Specialized
4.5

The main circuit board inside a computer that holds the processor and other parts

is broader in focus covering connectors and many components beyond processor

Antonyms

peripheral
  • Specialized
2 5.5

A device like a keyboard or printer that connects to a computer

How Complex

motherboard
  • Specialized
18 4.6
circuit board
  • Specialized
14 3.7
board
  • Specialized
167 5.4
control board
  • Informal
3 4.1

Surface Forms

motherboard singular
motherboards plural

Morphology

motherboard = mother + board (semi-transparent) = mother + board

The components 'mother' + 'board' are identifiable, but the technical sense 'main circuit board' relies on a figurative use of 'mother' and domain-specific knowledge.

Etymology

Motherboard comes from the two simple words mother ('female parent' or 'main source') and board ('flat panel'). Think of a mother caring for children: the motherboard is the main board that holds, connects, and looks after the computer's other parts, which is why it is the central circuit board.