computer-savvy
Meaning
Knowledgeable about or skilled in using computers and technology.
Structure
Usage
She's very computer-savvy and can fix most software issues herself.
Employers today are looking for computer-savvy graduates.
My grandfather isn't very computer-savvy, so I help him with online tasks.
Etymology
The term is a modern compound adjective, a product of the late 20th century digital revolution. The first element, 'computer', originates from the Latin verb 'computare', meaning to sum up or reckon, which evolved to denote the electronic calculating machine. The second element, 'savvy', has a more colorful journey from the Latin 'sapere' (to be wise) through French and into English nautical slang and pidgin languages, where it came to mean practical know-how. Fusing these parts creates a succinct descriptor for the essential practical wisdom required in the technological age, directly linking the ancient concept of wisdom ('savvy') to the modern domain of digital machines ('computer').
Analysis
- computer: From Latin 'computare' (to calculate, to reckon). In this compound, it functions as a noun modifier specifying the domain of knowledge. - savvy: From Latin 'sapere' (to be wise), via French 'savoir' (to know) and English Pidgin/Creole 'sabi'. In this compound, it functions as the head adjective meaning practical knowledge or understanding.