mainframe
noun
main·frame
ˈmān-ˌfrām 
1
: a large, powerful computer that can handle many tasks concurrently and is usually used commercially
… the million-dollar mainframe computers that took up entire floors of corporate premises …—
John Derbyshire
John Derbyshire2
dated
: a computer with its cabinet and internal circuits especially when considered separately from any peripherals connected to the computer
Examples of mainframe in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
But rather than adding complexity to the drama, these recollections give the mainframe narrative a halting rhythm that lessens the suspense.
—David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 May 2024
Many of his days were spent recording data using a mainframe computer that took up an entire room.
—Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald, 2 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for mainframe 
David Rooney, The Hollywood Reporter, 6 May 2024
Many of his days were spent recording data using a mainframe computer that took up an entire room.
—Raisa Habersham, Miami Herald, 2 May 2024
See all Example Sentences for mainframe
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'mainframe.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Dictionary Entries Near mainframe
Cite this Entry
“Mainframe.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mainframe. Accessed 29 May. 2024.
Copy CitationKids Definition
mainframe
noun
main·frame
ˈmān-ˌfrām
: a large fast computer that can do many jobs at once
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share