A coprocessor is a specialized processing unit that works alongside the main CPU to enhance performance for specific tasks. It can handle complex calculations, graphics rendering, or data processing, allowing the CPU to focus on other operations. Common examples include the graphics processing unit (GPU) for rendering images and the digital signal processor (DSP) for handling audio signals. Coprocessors improve overall system efficiency by offloading certain workloads from the CPU. This division of labor enables faster processing and better multitasking, making them essential in modern computing environments, such as gaming consoles, smartphones, and servers.