Definition
A personal computer (PC) is a computer designed for use by one person at a time, typically built around a processor, memory, storage, a display and a keyboard. It moved computing power from institutions into homes and offices.
How it works
A PC combines hardware with an operating system: the processor runs programs, the OS manages resources and presents a graphical interface, and application software accomplishes specific tasks on top of that.
Usage
Everyday tasks such as writing, programming, browsing, gaming and media playback mostly happen on a PC. Office work and creative production have long relied on it as the main platform.
Related and confusable terms
In a narrower sense, “PC” often means IBM PC compatibles (mostly running Windows), contrasted with the Mac; broadly, both are personal computers. The spread of the GUI was a key step in bringing the PC to a mass audience.