Other forms: word processors
A word processor is a tool that lets you write, edit, format, and print a document. If you use the word processor program that came with your laptop, you can quickly finish your book report for school.
You can think of the original word processors as a step between typewriters and computers. Rather than a program or application you use on your computer, these word processors were machines that served the sole purpose of writing and editing text. First developed in the 1970s, word processors made producing a paper or document much easier — and when they integrated with computers in the late 20th century, the process became easier still.