quantum computer

noun

: a computer that takes advantage of the quantum properties of qubits to perform certain types of calculation extremely quickly compared to conventional computers
quantum computing noun
A "geek at heart," Samet, 34, is fascinated by quantum computing, a still-emerging field that involves the behavior of subatomic particles in computing. Karen Breslau

Examples of quantum computer in a Sentence

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This research contributes to the ongoing effort to identify the specific problems where quantum computers can offer a distinct advantage over classical ones. Aman Tripathi, Interesting Engineering, 11 Sep. 2025 Of the methods being tested to build and scale quantum computers, PsiQuantum is the only major player betting on photonics, due to the existing infrastructure built around the technology. Rachyl Jones, semafor.com, 10 Sep. 2025 Once operational at scale, quantum computers will be capable of rendering today’s encryption standards obsolete. John Prisco, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2025 In a lab in Innsbruck, Austria, for example, physicists recently used a quantum computer to simulate a 2D patch of the electromagnetic field. Shalma Wegsman, Quanta Magazine, 5 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for quantum computer

Word History

First Known Use

1982, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quantum computer was in 1982

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Cite this Entry

“Quantum computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantum%20computer. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

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