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Definition of microcontroller

microcontroller

/ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.kənˈtroʊ.lɚ/
mi · cro · con · trol · ler
Plural:microcontrollers
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microcontroller Lexical Profile

microcontroller Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A compact integrated circuit designed to govern a specific operation in an embedded system, typically containing a processing unit, memory, and programmable input/output peripherals on a single chip.

Example

"The engineering students programmed a microcontroller to automate the temperature regulation of their greenhouse project."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for microcontroller

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with a 'microprocessor'. A microcontroller contains memory and programmable input/output peripherals directly on the same chip, whereas a microprocessor relies on external memory and interface components.

• Rhymes for microcontroller

• Nearby Words

microcircuitry
microclimate
microcomputer
microcontroller
microcosm
microcredit
microcystin

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the 1970s from the prefix 'micro-' (meaning small, from Greek 'mikros') and 'controller', reflecting the integration of an entire computerized control system onto a single microchip.

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Microcontroller. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/microcontroller
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