Computer
/kɔmˈpjuːtɐ/masculine
The German word for computer is Computer. Wiktionary also lists Rechner.
Meaning: programmable electronic device (noun)
Ways to say it
| German | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Computer | /kɔmˈpjuːtɐ/ | masculine |
| Rechner | /ˈʁɛçnɐ/ | masculine |
Both Computer and Rechner refer to a programmable electronic device. While Computer is the standard, Rechner is often used in more technical or mathematical contexts, such as referring to a workstation or a calculating machine.
How does it change in a sentence?
Both Computer and Rechner are masculine nouns. The plural form of Computer is Computer (the word remains unchanged, but the article changes to die). Additionally, note that in German, laptop is das Notebook.
How do you pronounce it?
/kɔmˈpjuːtɐ/
Did you know?
- The phrase den Rechner hochfahren literally means to 'drive the computer up', which is how Germans say they are booting up a system.
- The word Rechner is a direct relative of the English word 'counter', as both describe a person or thing that performs counts.
- In German, the word Rechner can describe everything from a simple handheld calculator to a massive supercomputer.
Examples in context
- Wo ist Ihr Rechner?Where's your computer?This sentence shows how to ask for someone's Rechner.Tatoeba #8071333 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2254677 by CK
- Der Rechner ist neu.The computer is new.This sentence describes the state of a Rechner.Tatoeba #2488636 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #50353 by CK
- Wo ist Toms Rechner?Where's Tom's computer?This sentence shows how to indicate possession of a Rechner.Tatoeba #2898501 by Pfirsichbaeumchen, translation #2240344 by CK
- Ich benutze den Computer für meine Arbeit.I use the computer for my work.
- Mein Vater verwendet den Rechner für seine Buchhaltung.My father uses the computer for his accounting.
- Kannst du bitte meinen PC einschalten?Can you please turn on my PC?
- 758 more sentences on Tatoeba
Example conversation
Lukas and Laura are in their home office.
- LukasIst der Computer neu?Is the computer new?
- LauraJa, er ist sehr schnell.Yes, it is very fast.
- LukasKann ich ihn benutzen?Can I use it?
- LauraNatürlich, Lukas, bitte sehr.Of course, Lukas, go ahead.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “computer” translations and entries Computer, Rechner, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Computer, Rechner, CC BY-SA 4.0.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
