computer fisso
/komˈpju.ter ˈfis.so/word by wordmasculine
In Italian, the English phrase desktop (referring to a desktop computer) is translated as computer fisso. If unsure, use computer fisso. Wiktionary also lists calcolatore fisso and elaboratore fisso.
Meaning: a desktop computer (noun)
Ways to say it
| Italian | IPA | Note |
|---|---|---|
| computer fisso | /komˈpju.ter ˈfis.so/ (word by word) | masculine |
| calcolatore fisso | /kal.ko.laˈto.re ˈfis.so/ (word by word) | masculine |
| elaboratore fisso | /e.la.bo.raˈto.re ˈfis.so/ (word by word) | masculine |
| ordinatore fisso | /or.di.naˈto.re ˈfis.so/ (word by word) | masculine |
| computatore fisso | masculine | |
| computiere fisso | masculine |
The phrase computer fisso is the most common and natural way to say desktop computer in everyday Italian. In formal Italian technology environments, the English word workstation is also commonly used.
What does it mean word for word?
The term contains the adjective fisso, which means fixed or stationary. This is used to distinguish a desktop computer from a portable one.
Which one should you use?
While computer fisso refers to a desktop, the standard way to refer to a laptop is computer portatile.
Did you know?
- While computer is the standard word today, the term ordinatore was once a common attempt by the state to create a pure Italian word for 'computer' by using the root of 'order'.
- The adjective fisso is used for other immobile objects, such as a telefono fisso for a landline phone, emphasizing a cultural distinction based on mobility rather than location.
- The term calcolatore shares its root with the Latin 'calculator', a person who performed calculations by hand long before digital machines existed.
Examples in context
- Durante la presentazione aziendale, abbiamo utilizzato il computer fisso per mostrare le statistiche.During the corporate presentation, we used the desktop to display the statistics.
- Preferisco un computer fisso per lavorare.I prefer a desktop computer for working.
- Ho appena comprato un nuovo computer fisso.I just bought a new desktop computer.
- Il mio computer fisso è molto veloce.My desktop computer is very fast.
Example conversation
Lorenzo and Giulia are discussing their home office setups.
- LorenzoTu usi un portatile o un computer fisso?Do you use a laptop or a desktop computer?
- GiuliaUso un computer fisso perché è più comodo.I use a desktop computer because it is more comfortable.
- LorenzoHai ragione, è meglio per la schiena.You are right, it is better for your back.
- GiuliaEsatto, lo uso tutto il giorno.Exactly, I use it all day.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “desktop” translations and entries computer fisso, calcolatore fisso, elaboratore fisso, ordinatore fisso, computatore fisso, computiere fisso, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- IPA marked “word by word” joins the Wiktionary pronunciations of each word (computer, fisso, calcolatore, elaboratore, ordinatore) and can differ in connected speech.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries calcolatore, computer, elaboratore, fisso, ordinatore, CC BY-SA 4.0.
