microprocessor

[mahy-kroh-pros-es-er, ‑uh-ser, ‑-proh-ses-er, ‑suh-ser]

noun

1. an integrated computer circuit that performs all the functions of a CPU.

microprocessor

/ ˌmaɪkrəʊˈprəʊsɛsə /

noun

1. computing a single integrated circuit performing the basic functions of the central processing unit in a small computer

microprocessor

1. An integrated circuit that contains a processor, such as a central processing unit.

Other Word Forms

• microprocessing noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of microprocessor¹

First recorded in 1965–70; micro- + processor

Example Sentences

The company released memory chips before creating the world’s first commercially available microprocessor and other innovations that made it possible for companies to build more affordable computers.

From Los Angeles Times

High-speed, high-capacity memory chips hold and quickly shuttle data to a computer’s microprocessor, which converts it into text, sound and images.

From New York Times

On a parabolic flight last year, where John experienced weightlessness for the first time, he found his day-to-day, hi-tech, microprocessor prosthetic leg would need recalibrating.

From BBC

They designed a specific TFT-based microprocessor and let it be produced in two foundries, after which they tested it in their lab, with success.

From Science Daily

They turned to David Blaauw, an electrical engineer and collaborator at the University of Michigan who produced a microprocessor chip that measures roughly 100 micrometers wide and contains a mere 128 bits of programmable memory.

From Science Magazine

Related Words

• chip 
• circuitry 
• microchip 
• silicon chip