coprocessor: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical
Quick answer
What does “coprocessor” mean?
A secondary processor designed to supplement the functions of the primary CPU, typically handling specialized tasks to improve overall system performance.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A secondary processor designed to supplement the functions of the primary CPU, typically handling specialized tasks to improve overall system performance.
In broader computing contexts, any auxiliary processing unit that works in conjunction with a main processor, historically including math coprocessors and modern GPU coprocessors.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. Spelling remains identical.
Connotations
Neutral technical term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency technical term in both UK and US English.
Grammar
How to Use “coprocessor” in a Sentence
[CPU] + has/uses/includes + a [coprocessor][coprocessor] + handles/accelerates + [task][device] + is equipped with + a [coprocessor]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “coprocessor” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The system can be configured to coprocess certain calculations.
- Applications may coprocess graphical operations.
American English
- The software is designed to coprocess physics simulations.
- Some workloads can coprocess on the auxiliary unit.
adverb
British English
- The task runs coprocessor-quickly with the new hardware.
- It processes data coprocessor-efficiently.
American English
- The operation completed coprocessor-fast.
- It handles encryption coprocessor-effectively.
adjective
British English
- The coprocessor unit is located on the mainboard.
- Coprocessor functionality enhances the system's capabilities.
American English
- The coprocessor chip sits beside the CPU.
- Coprocessor acceleration is noticeable in complex tasks.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare except in technical procurement/specification documents.
Academic
Used in computer science, engineering, and electronics papers discussing hardware architecture.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Standard term in hardware documentation, chip specifications, and system design discussions.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “coprocessor”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “coprocessor”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “coprocessor”
- Spelling as 'co-processor' (hyphenated form is less standard)
- Confusing with 'multiprocessor' (which implies multiple equal processors)
- Using as a verb (e.g., 'to coprocess')
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Historically and architecturally, yes—a GPU functions as a specialized graphics coprocessor. In modern usage, the term 'coprocessor' is less common for GPUs, which are now considered primary processors for their domain.
Yes, but the concept has evolved. Rather than separate chips, many modern 'coprocessors' are cores within a System-on-a-Chip (SoC), such as AI accelerators, security processors, or digital signal processors.
The Intel 8087 floating-point unit (FPU), sold as an optional add-on for the Intel 8086/8088 CPUs, was a landmark maths coprocessor that dramatically sped up scientific and engineering software.
The terms overlap significantly. An accelerator emphasizes speed improvement for specific tasks, while a coprocessor emphasizes partnership with the CPU. In practice, they are often used interchangeably, though 'accelerator' is more common in contemporary marketing.
A secondary processor designed to supplement the functions of the primary CPU, typically handling specialized tasks to improve overall system performance.
Coprocessor is usually technical in register.
Coprocessor: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkəʊˈprəʊsesə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkoʊˈprɑːsesər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: CO-worker for the PROcessor - a helper chip that works alongside the main brain of the computer.
Conceptual Metaphor
A specialist assistant to a general manager (where CPU is the manager).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary relationship of a coprocessor to the CPU?