microprocessor

/ˈmaɪkroʊˌprɑsɛsər/

Other forms: microprocessors

Your computer has a number of microprocessors — each one a very small device with integrated circuits built into it that carry out the computer's logical operations. Because a microprocessor is so small, more than one is needed.

A microprocessor is a chip inside your computer's central processing unit (CPU) or inside your phone or other mobile or smart device. Each one is something like a mini CPU itself, receiving digital signals, carrying out logical and arithmetic operations, and connecting peripherals (electronic equipment connected by cables) and memory chips. The word microprocessor uses the combining form micro-, from Greek mikros, meaning "small."

Definitions of microprocessor

1. noun

   a tiny electronic device in a computer, containing integrated circuits and serving to carry out the computer's logical and arithmetic functions; a semiconductor chip
   “a microprocessor functions as the central processing unit of a microcomputer”

   “a disk drive contains a microprocessor to handle the internal functions of the drive”

   type of:

   chip, micro chip, microchip, microprocessor chip, silicon chip

   electronic equipment consisting of a small crystal of a silicon semiconductor fabricated to carry out a number of electronic functions in an integrated circuit