The computers in your car, and the microcontrollers used to flash LEDs in kids' sneakers, are 'embedded'.   Usually, in computer engineering, the word means that there is no one present to press a 'reset' button, so there is usually no button, and often no display as such.  Engineering embedded systems requires a fair assortment of skill sets, and can be rather fun.  It requires a somewhat special mindset in that the target computer has to function on its own, for as long as it will function, without an operator and often without updates or means to install them.

I have heard the word used in other contexts, but I suppose it is possible.

 

Mike Halloran
Pembroke Pines, FL, USA