Find the word definition

Wiktionary
punched card

n. (context computing English) A punch card (especially one that has had holes punched in it).

WordNet
punched card

n. a card on which data can be recorded in the form of punched holes [syn: punch card, Hollerith card]

Wikipedia
Punched card

A punched card or punch card is a piece of stiff paper that contains digital information represented by the presence or absence of holes in predefined positions. The information might be data for data processing applications or, in earlier examples, used to directly controlling automated machinery. The terms IBM card, or Hollerith card specifically refer to punched cards used in semiautomatic data processing.

Punched cards were widely used through much of the 20th century in what became known as the data processing industry, where specialized and increasingly complex unit record machines, organized into data processing systems, used punched cards for data input, output, and storage. Many early digital computers used punched cards, often prepared using keypunch machines, as the primary medium for input of both computer programs and data.

While punched cards are now obsolete as a recording medium, as of 2012, some voting machines still use punched cards to record votes.

Usage examples of "punched card".

Before they have grown up, the cells in their bodies will have divided a trillion times and with each cell division new building stages will be summoned from the punched card.

For Torvin to possess a cake without a proper punched card would mean losing his next turn in The Line.

Now lights flashed within a series of tiny oblong windows, giving to one wall the momentary impression of an old data-punched card held up to a bright light source&hellip.

Before the day was over, thanks to the magic of punched card automation, Sheriff Jackson would know whether Gerlock and Bonilla had police records anywhere in the world.