A computer numerically controlled machine tool is an automated machine tool equipped with a program control system. The control system can logically process programs with control codes or other symbolic instructions and decode them to make the machine tool move and process parts. The English abbreviation of CNC is also known as CNC machine tools and CNC lathes. It is called computer gongs in Hong Kong and the Pearl River Delta of Guangdong. CNC is also called computer gong, CNCCH or CNC machine tool. It is actually a name from Hong Kong. Later it was introduced to the Pearl River Delta in mainland China. It is actually a CNC milling machine. In Guangdong, Jiangsu, Zhejiang and Shanghai, people call it "CNC machining center".

General CNC processing usually refers to precision machining, CNC processing lathes, CNC processing milling machines, CNC processing boring and milling machines, etc.