OS: meaning, definitions and examples

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[ ˈɒpəreɪtɪŋ ˈsɪstəm ]

Noun

^{Context #1 | Noun}

operating system

An operating system (OS) is system software that manages computer hardware, software resources, and provides common services for computer programs. The operating system is the most fundamental software that runs on a computer.

Synonyms

operating system, system software.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
OS	Commonly used in casual or technical conversations to refer to the software that manages computer hardware and software resources. Frequently found in abbreviations and informal writing. Make sure your OS is up to date. The app is compatible with the latest OS.
operating system	Used in formal writing, technical documentation, or detailed discussions about the software. More specific and clear than just 'OS'. An operating system manages computer memory and processes. Linux is an open-source operating system.
system software	Refers to the broader category that includes operating systems along with other software that manages and integrates a computer's hardware. Used in educational or technical contexts. System software helps the computer perform basic tasks. The installation of system software was successful.

Word

Description / Examples

Commonly used in casual or technical conversations to refer to the software that manages computer hardware and software resources. Frequently found in abbreviations and informal writing.

Make sure your OS is up to date.
The app is compatible with the latest OS.

operating system

Used in formal writing, technical documentation, or detailed discussions about the software. More specific and clear than just 'OS'.

An operating system manages computer memory and processes.
Linux is an open-source operating system.

system software

Refers to the broader category that includes operating systems along with other software that manages and integrates a computer's hardware. Used in educational or technical contexts.

System software helps the computer perform basic tasks.
The installation of system software was successful.

Examples of usage

The most popular operating systems for personal computers are Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Without an operating system, a computer would be unable to function properly.
Mobile devices also have operating systems such as iOS and Android.

Translations

Translations of the word "OS" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sistema operacional

🇮🇳 ऑपरेटिंग सिस्टम

🇩🇪 Betriebssystem

🇮🇩 sistem operasi

🇺🇦 операційна система

🇵🇱 system operacyjny

🇯🇵 オペレーティングシステム

🇫🇷 système d'exploitation

🇪🇸 sistema operativo

🇹🇷 işletim sistemi

🇰🇷 운영 체제

🇸🇦 نظام التشغيل

🇨🇿 operační systém

🇸🇰 operačný systém

🇨🇳 操作系统

🇸🇮 operacijski sistem

🇮🇸 stýrikerfi

🇰🇿 операциялық жүйе

🇬🇪 ოპერაციული სისტემა

🇦🇿 əməliyyat sistemi

🇲🇽 sistema operativo

Etymology

The term 'operating system' was first used in the 1960s as computers evolved and the need for software to manage the hardware became apparent. Since then, operating systems have advanced significantly to accommodate the increasing complexity of computer systems.