processor

noun

pro·​ces·​sor ˈprä-ˌse-sər How to pronounce processor (audio)
ˈprō-
1
: one that processes
scrap processor
agricultural processor
2
a(1)
(2)
: a component of a computer that processes data
specifically : cpu
b
: a computer program (such as a compiler) that puts another program into a form acceptable to the computer
3

Examples of processor in a Sentence

the largest seafood processor in the country
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Corporate treasury departments and B2B payment processors are adopting stablecoins to bypass correspondent banking delays. Sean Lee, Forbes.com, 15 May 2026 Its flagship product is the Wafer Scale Engine 3, which is a massive processor built from an entire silicon wafer rather than many smaller chips. Sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 15 May 2026 With processor running, stream in 2 tablespoons ice water; process until light and fluffy. Shelly Westerhausen Worcel, Midwest Living, 15 May 2026 The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite processor is a killer, benchmarking great on games and productivity apps. K. Thor Jensen, PC Magazine, 15 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for processor

Word History

First Known Use

1909, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of processor was in 1909

Cite this Entry

“Processor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/processor. Accessed 21 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

processor

noun
pro·​ces·​sor ˈpräs-ˌes-ər How to pronounce processor (audio)
ˈprōs-
1
: a person or machine that processes
2
: a part of a computer that processes data
especially : cpu

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