punch card

noun

: a card in which holes are punched in designated positions to represent data

called also Hollerith card, punched card

Examples of punch card in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
At the time, most of the world’s computers—massive machines that stored data on punch cards or magnetic tape—resided in large corporate offices and government labs. Shaun Raviv, WIRED, 21 Jan. 2020 In an era when data had to be stored on punch cards, this was almost impossible. Quanta Magazine, 2 Oct. 2024 This was a groundbreaking tool that revolutionized how numbers were crunched, moving from mainframes and punch cards to something that could be run on a personal computer. Steve Murphy, Forbes, 2 Oct. 2024 Over time, programs evolved alongside other technologies, making redemption more efficient and eliminating the need to store physical stamps and punch cards. Allen Kopelman, Forbes, 12 Sep. 2024 See all Example Sentences for punch card 

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of punch card was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near punch card

Cite this Entry

“Punch card.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/punch%20card. Accessed 24 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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