core store: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical/Computing
Quick answer
What does “core store” mean?
A central storage location for essential data or components within a computer system.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A central storage location for essential data or components within a computer system.
In computing, the main memory or primary storage area where frequently accessed data is kept for quick retrieval by the processor. Historically, it referred to magnetic core memory in early computers.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. Spelling remains the same.
Connotations
In both varieties, it carries strong technical/historical computing connotations.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialised in both dialects, primarily found in technical documentation, computing history, or legacy system contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “core store” in a Sentence
The [system/processor] accesses the core store.Data is loaded into the core store.The core store of the [computer/model]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “core store” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
American English
- [Not applicable as a verb]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adverb]
adjective
British English
- [Not applicable as an adjective]
American English
- [Not applicable as an adjective]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare, except in IT departments discussing legacy systems.
Academic
Used in computer science, particularly in historical or computer architecture contexts.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Primary context. Refers to a key component in system architecture or historical computing.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “core store”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “core store”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “core store”
- Using it as a verb (e.g., 'to core store data').
- Confusing it with 'core story' in speech.
- Using it in non-technical contexts where 'storage' or 'memory' would suffice.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The specific term for magnetic core memory is largely historical. However, the concept of a fast, central storage for active data is now called RAM (Random Access Memory) or primary cache.
A core store (or RAM) is volatile, very fast memory used for data the computer is actively working on. A hard drive is non-volatile, slower storage used for long-term data retention.
No, 'core store' is exclusively a noun phrase. You cannot 'core store' something.
It originates from 'magnetic core memory', where bits of data were stored by magnetising tiny ferrite rings (cores). The 'store' part simply means a place for storage.
A central storage location for essential data or components within a computer system.
Core store is usually technical/computing in register.
Core store: in British English it is pronounced /kɔː stɔː/, and in American English it is pronounced /kɔr stɔr/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[not applicable for this technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of the CORE of an apple – the central, essential part. A CORE STORE is the central, essential storage for a computer's immediate needs.
Conceptual Metaphor
MEMORY IS A STORAGE ROOM (The core store is the most important, central room where vital items are kept for instant use).
Practice
Quiz
In modern terminology, which concept is the closest functional equivalent to a 'core store'?