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Keypunch: meaning, definitions and examples

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keypunch

 

[ ˈkiːpʌnʧ ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

data entry

A keypunch is a device used to input data into a computer by punching holes in cards or tape, which represent the data entered. This method was widely used before the advent of more advanced data entry systems. Keypunching was a fundamental part of early computing and was essential in the operation of mainframe computers.

Synonyms

data punch, key punch.

Examples of usage

  • The keypunch operator worked long hours to prepare the data for processing.
  • In the 1960s, keypunch machines were a common sight in data processing centers.
  • She learned how to use a keypunch as part of her job training.
  • Many early computer programmers began their careers as keypunch operators.

Translations

Translations of the word "keypunch" in other languages:

🇵🇹 punch de teclado

🇮🇳 कीपंच

🇩🇪 Tastaturstanzer

🇮🇩 punch keyboard

🇺🇦 клавішний пробійник

🇵🇱 punch klawiaturowy

🇯🇵 キーパンチ

🇫🇷 poinçon de clavier

🇪🇸 perforadora de teclado

🇹🇷 klavye delici

🇰🇷 키펀치

🇸🇦 مفتاح مثقب

🇨🇿 klávesový děrovač

🇸🇰 klávesový punč

🇨🇳 打孔键盘

🇸🇮 punch tipkovnice

🇮🇸 lyklapunch

🇰🇿 перфоратор клавиатура

🇬🇪 კლავიშის ჩაქუჩი

🇦🇿 klaviatura punch

🇲🇽 perforadora de teclado

Etymology

The term 'keypunch' originated in the early days of computing, primarily in the 1950s and 1960s, when data was often entered into computers through punched cards. The word combines 'key', referring to the keys of a typewriter or computer keyboard, with 'punch', which relates to the hole-punching process involved in creating data cards. Keypunch machines were developed to facilitate data entry for large amounts of information, becoming a crucial tool in data processing before the rise of modern computer interfaces. The historical significance of keypunching can be seen in its role in the programming and operation of early computers; it functioned as a precursor to more contemporary data entry devices. As technology advanced, the use of keypunch machines diminished, but they remain an important part of computing history.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #34,387 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.