personal-computer
UK[ˈpɜːs(ə)n(ə)l kəmˈpjuːtə]US[ˈpɜːrs(ə)n(ə)l kəmˈpjuːtər]
n
A computer designed for use by one person at a time, typically for general tasks such as word processing, internet browsing, and gaming.
Morpheme Breakdown
personal
computer
personal
individual
computer
calculating machine
Etymology
The term "personal-computer" is a modern compound noun formed in the late 20th century. The first element, "personal," originates from the Latin persona, which referred to a theatrical mask and later evolved to mean an individual human being. The second element, "computer," derives from the Latin verb computare, meaning "to sum up, reckon, or calculate." The compound was coined to distinguish small, relatively affordable machines intended for individual, non-specialist use from the large, institutional mainframe and minicomputers that preceded them. It logically combines the concept of individual ownership and operation ("personal") with the core function of automated calculation and data processing ("computer").
Analysis
Structure: personal (individual) + computer (calculating machine)
- personal: From Latin personalis (of a person), from persona (mask, character, person). In this compound, it functions as an adjective specifying the type of computer.
- computer: From Latin computare (to count, calculate). In this compound, it functions as the core noun denoting the electronic device.
Examples
The first successful mass-market personal-computer was the IBM PC, introduced in 1981.
She uses her personal-computer for remote work, video editing, and staying in touch with family.
The rise of the personal-computer revolutionized how people access information and communicate.