Processor Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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processor
[ˈprɒsɛsə ]
Definitions
computer hardware
A processor is the main component of a computer that performs calculations and executes instructions.
Synonyms
CPU, central processing unit, microprocessor.
Examples of usage
- The processor of this computer is very fast.
- The latest model comes with a powerful processor.
food industry
A processor is a company or a machine that processes food for consumption.
Synonyms
manufacturer, packager, producer.
Examples of usage
- The local processor produces organic peanut butter.
- The meat processor is known for its high-quality products.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Technology
- Modern processors can have multiple cores, allowing them to handle many tasks at once, much like having multiple chefs in a kitchen.
- The first commercially available microprocessor was the Intel 4004, released in 1971, which paved the way for the personal computer revolution.
Pop Culture
- Films like 'The Social Network' and 'Silicon Valley' highlight the influence of processors in shaping the tech industry and culture.
- Video games often showcase the power of processors through graphics and gameplay intensity, influencing how we enjoy entertainment.
Science
- Processors convert binary code (zeros and ones) into actions, which is fundamental to all digital devices.
- The speed of a processor is commonly measured in GHz (gigahertz), indicating how many billion cycles it completes in one second.
Education
- Computer science courses often include topics on processors, teaching students how they function and their architecture.
- Hands-on projects, like building a simple computer, can help students understand how the processor interacts with other parts.
Origin of 'processor'
Main points about word origin
- The word is derived from the Latin 'processus,' which means 'to go forward' or 'advance.'
- In computing, the term began being used in the 1970s as technology advanced and new devices emerged.
The word 'processor' originated from the verb 'process' with the addition of the agent noun suffix '-or'. It first appeared in the mid-17th century, primarily used in the context of legal processes. Over time, its usage expanded to include computer hardware and food industry processes, reflecting advancements in technology and industry practices.
See also: bioprocessing, preprocessor, process, processable, processed, processes, processing, procession, processional, reprocess, reprocessing, unprocessed.