peripheral device

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Word: Peripheral Device

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A peripheral device is electronic equipment that connects to a computer to add functionality. These devices are not part of the main computer (the CPU) but help the computer perform tasks. Common examples include printers, scanners, and external hard drives.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "peripheral device" when talking about any external equipment that works with a computer.
• It's often used in discussions about technology, computer setup, or when describing how to expand a computer's capabilities.

Example:

• "I bought a new printer as a peripheral device for my laptop so I can print documents at home."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more technical context, you might hear terms like "input peripheral" (devices that send data to the computer, like a keyboard or mouse) or "output peripheral" (devices that receive data from the computer, like a monitor or printer).

Word Variants:

• Peripheral (adjective): This describes something that is on the edge or outer part. For example, "peripheral vision" refers to what you can see outside your main line of sight.

Different Meanings:

• In a non-computer context, "peripheral" can refer to anything that is secondary or not central to the main issue or topic.

Synonyms:

• External device
• Add-on
• Accessory
• Auxiliary device

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Plug in": This means to connect a peripheral device to a computer. For example, “Don’t forget to plug in the mouse before using the computer.”
• "Hook up": This can refer to connecting a peripheral device to a computer. For example, “I need to hook up my printer to my laptop.”

Summary:

A peripheral device is any external device that connects to a computer to help it work better.

Academic

Noun

1. (computer science) electronic equipment connected by cable to the CPU of a computer
   • disk drives and printers are important peripherals

Synonyms

• peripheral
• computer peripheral