Definition: computer

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Source: WordNet (r) 1.7 

computer
     n 1: a machine for performing calculations automatically [syn: computing
          machine, computing device, data processor, electronic
          computer, information processing system]
     2: an expert at calculation (or at operating calculating
        machines) [syn: calculator, reckoner, figurer, estimator]

Source: Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913) 

Computer \Com*put"er\, n.
   One who computes.

Source: The Free On-line Dictionary of Computing (2003-OCT-10) 

Computer

   <publication> A journal of the IEEE Computer Society.

   (1995-03-10)
computer

   <computer> A machine that can be programmed to manipulate
   symbols.  Computers can perform complex and repetitive
   procedures quickly, precisely and reliably and can quickly
   store and retrieve large amounts of data.

   The physical components from which a computer is constructed
   (electronic circuits and input/output devices) are known as
   "hardware".  Most computers have four types of hardware
   component: CPU, input, output and memory.  The CPU (central
   processing unit) executes programs ("software") which tell
   the computer what to do.  Input and output (I/O) devices allow
   the computer to communicate with the user and the outside
   world.  There are several kinds of memory - fast, expensive,
   short term memory (e.g. RAM) to hold intermediate results,
   and slower, cheaper, long-term memory (e.g. magnetic disk and
   magnetic tape) to hold programs and data between jobs.

   See also analogue computer.

   (1995-03-10)