Palmtops

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

  1. A small portable computer designed to fit in the palm of one's hand; typically equipped with a touchscreen and limited processing power; often used for basic applications like note-taking and scheduling
  2. A compact computing device that is handheld and provides essential functionalities similar to a personal computer; usually features a display and simple controls; used for tasks like organizing information and managing tasks
  3. A diminutive electronic device made for convenience and portability, allowing users to access and perform computing tasks on the go; characterized by its lightweight design and often touch-sensitive interface

Etymology: "Palmtops" is simply the plural of "palmtop", the name for a small computer held in one hand. The plural is the form you would use when talking about more than one of these devices, such as a classroom full of them or a market offering several models. The singular "palmtop" is built from two plain English words. "Palm" refers to the hand, specifically the inner surface that a small object rests against, and "top" is the upper side of a thing. Put together, the word describes a machine that sits on the palm, and it was modelled on the earlier coinages "desktop" and "laptop", which named computers by where they were placed.

Synonyms: PDAs, personal digital assistants, handhelds, handheld computers, mini computers