Laptop: meaning, definitions and examples

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laptop

 

[ ˈlæpˌtɑp ]

Context #1 | Noun

work

A portable computer that is small enough to be used on one's lap.

Synonyms

laptop computer, notebook, portable computer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
laptop

This term is the most commonly used to refer to a small, portable computer that you can easily carry around. It can be used in both casual conversation and professional settings.

  • I need to buy a new laptop for school
  • She uses her laptop for work every day
notebook

This is an older term that was commonly used to describe smaller laptops. It emphasizes the compact size and portability. It is less common in everyday use now but might still be found in some marketing materials or product descriptions.

  • I prefer using a notebook because it's lighter to carry around
  • She bought a notebook for taking notes during meetings
portable computer

This is a very descriptive term that can emphasize the mobility aspect. It is more formal and less commonly used in casual conversation but might appear in technical descriptions or when distinguishing from desktop computers.

  • Portable computers are essential for mobile professionals
  • He brought his portable computer to the conference
laptop computer

This term is slightly more formal and descriptive, often used in technical or professional contexts to clearly emphasize that the device is a computer.

  • The company provided each employee with a laptop computer
  • Laptop computers are becoming more powerful each year

Examples of usage

  • I always bring my laptop to work with me.
  • She spent the evening working on her laptop.
Context #2 | Noun

technology

A type of personal computer designed for mobile use.

Synonyms

laptop computer, notebook, portable computer.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
laptop

General term used for a portable computer suitable for use while traveling. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

  • She packed her laptop in her bag before heading to the airport.
  • John uses his laptop for both work and gaming.
notebook

Used to describe a smaller, lighter, and often less powerful type of laptop. Commonly used in marketing and casual conversations.

  • She prefers a notebook because it fits easily into her handbag.
  • His old notebook can't handle the new software updates.
portable computer

A more technical term that emphasizes the mobility aspect of the device. Likely to be used in technical manuals, formal documents, or discussions about older devices.

  • Engineers designed this portable computer to withstand extreme temperatures.
  • Early portable computers were much heavier than today's models.
laptop computer

A more formal term for a laptop, often used in technical or professional contexts.

  • The new laptop computer has a battery life of up to 12 hours.
  • During the meeting, they discussed the specifications of various laptop computers.

Examples of usage

  • The new laptop model is very lightweight.
  • Many students use laptops during classes.

Translations

Translations of the word "laptop" in other languages:

🇵🇹 portátil

🇮🇳 लैपटॉप

🇩🇪 Laptop

🇮🇩 laptop

🇺🇦 ноутбук

🇵🇱 laptop

🇯🇵 ノートパソコン (nōtopasokon)

🇫🇷 ordinateur portable

🇪🇸 portátil

🇹🇷 dizüstü bilgisayar

🇰🇷 노트북 (noteubuk)

🇸🇦 حاسوب محمول (ḥāsūb maḥmūl)

🇨🇿 notebook

🇸🇰 notebook

🇨🇳 笔记本电脑 (bǐjìběn diànnǎo)

🇸🇮 prenosnik

🇮🇸 fartölva

🇰🇿 ноутбук

🇬🇪 ლეპტოპი (leptopi)

🇦🇿 noutbuk

🇲🇽 portátil

Etymology

The word 'laptop' originated in the late 1980s and is a combination of the words 'lap' (referring to the place where it is typically used) and 'top' (indicating its position when open). Laptops have evolved over the years to become essential tools for work, study, and entertainment.

See also: lap, lapel, lapin, lapper, lapwing, overlap.