1. (computing) the part of a computer (a microprocessor chip) that does most of the data processing
   "the central processing unit and the memory form the central part of a computer to which the peripherals are attached";
   - CPU, C.P.U., central processor, processor

Derived forms: central processing units

Type of: computer hardware, electronic equipment, hardware

Part of: computer, computing device, computing machine, data processor, electronic computer, information processing system

Encyclopedia: Central processing unit