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

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.

Investors got a little taste of that earlier this month, when Nvidia's CEO made an off-hand comment about quantum computers, and a red-hot sector lost roughly half its value in one day. Between the lines: In those volatile scenarios, what goes down violently can also rally just as spectacularly. —

Ben Berkowitz, Axios, 27 Jan. 2025 So how can quantum computers be millions and millions of years faster than even the most powerful supercomputer? —

Britney Nguyen, Quartz, 22 Jan. 2025 This allows a quantum computer to explore multiple possibilities at the same time, radically speeding up processing times. —

Michael Gfoeller and David H. Rundell, Newsweek, 15 Jan. 2025 There are technologies that use mathematics to create new encryption problems that quantum computers theoretically can’t solve. —

Nishant Batra, Forbes, 8 Jan. 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

See more words from the same year

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Style

“Quantum computer.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantum%20computer. Accessed 9 Feb. 2025.

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