laptop English · revision 6470

+ {{infobox|confidence=established|formation=compound|attested=1983}}

+

+ ==Pronunciation==

+ * IPA: /ˈlæp.tɒp/ ''(UK)''; /ˈlæp.tɑp/ ''(US)''^(Wiktionary)

+

+ ==Etymology==

+ It is formed from [[lap]] and [[top]], on the model of [[desktop]].^(Etymonline)^(MWU 2024)^(Webster's Third 1961)

+

+ ==Earliest recorded meaning==

+ A portable computer: 1983, as noun and adjective, in Etymonline and the Historical Thesaurus;^(Etymonline)^(HTOED) MWU has 1984.^(MWU 2024)

+

+ ==Semantic evolution==

+ The adjective, of a size and design convenient for use on one's lap, is from the same time.^(MWU 2024)^(HTOED) Longman notes the fuller form ''laptop computer'' and contrasts it with [[desktop]].^(LDOCE 2009)

+

+ ==Timeline==

+ * 1983 – a laptop computer.^(Etymonline)^(HTOED)

+

+ ==Modern meaning==

+ ===Noun===

+ # A small portable [[computer]] with a screen and keyboard in one unit, light enough to use on one's lap.^(AHD 2000)^(MWU 2024)^(Collins 2023)

+

+ ===Adjective===

+ # Small and light enough to use on one's lap.^(MWU 2024)

+

+ ==Related words==

+ * [[desktop]]

+ * [[palmtop]]

+ * [[notebook]]

+ * [[lap]]

+

+ ==References==

+ {{reflist}}