Pioneering 1940s Computer 'ENIAC' Crossword Clue Solved

The seminal mainframe that kickstarted the digital age is revealed.

Apr. 14, 2026 at 7:20am

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A highly detailed, glowing 3D illustration of the ENIAC computer, with its massive chassis, blinking lights, and intricate wiring, set against a dark, moody background. The ENIAC is the central focus, illuminated by neon cyan and magenta lights that give it a sense of power and technological prowess.The pioneering ENIAC computer, a seminal mainframe of the 1940s, continues to captivate and inspire as a crossword clue.Washington Today

The 5-letter answer to the crossword clue 'Seminal mainframe of the 1940s' has been identified as ENIAC, the pioneering electronic general-purpose computer developed at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1940s. This clue was recently featured in the Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword on April 14, 2026.

Why it matters

ENIAC is considered one of the first general-purpose electronic computers, laying the groundwork for the digital revolution. As a crossword clue, it tests solvers' knowledge of early computer history and highlights the lasting impact of this groundbreaking technology.

The details

The ENIAC (Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer) was developed at the University of Pennsylvania and became operational in 1946. It was massive, weighing 30 tons and occupying a 1,800-square-foot room. ENIAC was programmable, allowing it to solve 'a large class of numerical problems' through replugging and rewiring. This flexibility was a major innovation over earlier special-purpose electromechanical machines.

  • ENIAC became operational in 1946.
  • The crossword clue appeared in the Washington Post Daily Mini Meta Crossword on April 14, 2026.

The players

ENIAC

The pioneering Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer, one of the first general-purpose electronic computers, developed at the University of Pennsylvania in the 1940s.

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The takeaway

The inclusion of the ENIAC in a crossword puzzle highlights the lasting historical significance of this early computer, which laid the groundwork for the digital revolution. As technology continues to advance, it's important to remember the pioneering work that made it all possible.