Combination of Windows and
Intel. Refers to a computer running the Windows operating system and powered by an Intel microprocessor. In practice, the term is applied to computers running Windows, regardless of the actual microprocessor used.
Mildly derisive term, frequently in the phrase "
wintel box", used to distinguish other systems (Mac, Linux, etc.) from the 80-90% of systems used by the
proletarian masses.
We were hoping to get
Macs in the office, but the
drones in IT went out and bought more Wintel
boxes.
