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mainframe

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: //ˈmeɪnˌfreɪm//

KK: /ˈmeɪnˌfreɪm/

noun
Definition

A large and powerful computer that is used by big organizations to manage and process a lot of data, often serving many users at the same time.


Example

The company upgraded its mainframe to improve data processing speed.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear about the new mainframe they just installed at the office?
Sloth B
Yeah, I heard it’s supposed to be super fast and handle a lot of tasks at once.
Sloth A
I can't wait to see how much more efficient our work will be with the mainframe.
Sloth B
For sure! It’ll definitely make things easier for everyone.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
supercomputer
server
processor
Antonyms
microcomputer
laptop
tablet
Root Explanation

Mainframe → It is formed from "main" (from Old French *main*, meaning principal or chief) and "frame" (from Old English *framian*, meaning to construct or build). The word "mainframe" refers to a principal structure or system that supports other components.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'main' meaning principal or chief, and 'frame' meaning to construct. This helps you remember that a mainframe is the chief structure that supports other systems.

Visually Confused Words
misframe
airframe
infame
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