neural computer: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Low (Technical Term)Formal, Technical, Academic
Quick answer
What does “neural computer” mean?
A computer whose design and operation are inspired by the structure and function of biological neural networks in the brain.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A computer whose design and operation are inspired by the structure and function of biological neural networks in the brain.
Often used synonymously with terms like 'neuromorphic computer' or 'brain-inspired computer' to refer to hardware or systems designed for efficient artificial intelligence and machine learning tasks, particularly those involving neural network algorithms.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or orthographic differences. The term is used identically in technical contexts in both varieties.
Connotations
None specific to either variety.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in specialized fields in both BrE and AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “neural computer” in a Sentence
A neural computer [performs/executes/runs] neural network algorithms.Researchers are developing a neural computer [based on/inspired by] the human brain.The neural computer [consists of/comprises] millions of artificial neurons.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “neural computer” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The neural-computer interface allows direct communication.
- They are exploring neural-computer hybrid systems.
American English
- The neural-computer interface allows for direct communication.
- They are exploring neural-computer hybrid systems.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Might appear in strategic reports or pitches for advanced computing investments: 'The company is betting on neural computers to revolutionize data analytics.'
Academic
Common in computer science, neuroscience, and engineering publications: 'The paper proposes a novel framework for benchmarking neural computers.'
Everyday
Very rare. Unlikely to be used in casual conversation.
Technical
The primary domain. Used in specifications, research papers, and conferences on hardware for AI: 'This neural computer implements synaptic plasticity in real-time.'
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “neural computer”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “neural computer”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “neural computer”
- Misspelling: 'neural computor' or 'neural computure'.
- Confusing it with a standard computer running neural network software.
- Using it as a general synonym for any fast or 'smart' computer.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not exactly. A standard computer (e.g., a laptop) can run neural network software. A 'neural computer' specifically refers to hardware whose fundamental design (e.g., its processors and connections) physically mimics the structure of a biological neural network.
No, they are primarily research prototypes or highly specialised hardware for experimental and niche applications. Most current AI runs on conventional computers or slightly specialised hardware like GPUs and TPUs.
The potential advantage is massive gains in energy efficiency and processing speed for specific tasks like pattern recognition and sensory data processing, as its architecture avoids the bottlenecks of the traditional von Neumann design.
Typically, no. Most neural computers are built from silicon or other inorganic materials. The term 'neural' refers to the brain-inspired architectural design, not the materials. Some experimental 'wetware' computers use biological components, but these are exceptionally rare.
A computer whose design and operation are inspired by the structure and function of biological neural networks in the brain.
Neural computer is usually formal, technical, academic in register.
Neural computer: in British English it is pronounced /ˈnjʊə.rəl kəmˈpjuː.tər/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈnʊr.əl kəmˈpjuː.t̬ɚ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a computer built like a NET of NEURONS (neural net). A NEURAL COMPUTER is a machine with a 'brain-like' structure.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE COMPUTER IS A BRAIN. (This metaphor is literalised in the term, as the device is designed to structurally and functionally resemble a brain.)
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the closest synonym for 'neural computer' in a technical context?