CPU

UK: ˌsiːpiːˈjuː | US: ˌsiːpiːˈjuː

Definition

  1. n. (abbreviation) Central Processing Unit; the primary component of a computer that performs most processing tasks.

Structure
C <central>P <processing>U <unit>
Etymology

The term "CPU" is an initialism derived from "Central Processing Unit," coined in the mid-20th century to describe the core computational hardware of computers. Unlike morphemes in traditional words, its components are acronym-based, reflecting its function:

  • "Central" (C) highlights its role as the computational hub.
  • "Processing" (P) denotes its task execution capability.
  • "Unit" (U) frames it as a discrete component.
    This structure mirrors the technical precision of computer science terminology.
Examples

  1. The CPU is often called the brain of the computer.

  2. Modern CPUs can execute billions of instructions per second.

  3. Overheating can damage a CPU if not properly cooled.

  4. Upgrading your CPU may significantly improve system performance.

  5. The design of CPUs has evolved from single-core to multi-core architectures.