First Known Use: 1570
Dictionary
calculate
verb cal·cu·late \ˈkal-kyə-ˌlāt\
: to find (a number, answer, etc.) by using mathematical processes
: to get a general idea about the value, size, or cost of (something)
cal·cu·lat·edcal·cu·lat·ing
Full Definition of CALCULATE
transitive verb
1
a : to determine by mathematical processes <calculate the rate of acceleration> b : to reckon by exercise of practical judgment : estimate <calculate the likelihood of success> c : to solve or probe the meaning of : figure out <trying to calculate his expression — Hugh MacLennan>
2
: to design or adapt for a purpose <he carefully calculated the timing of his arrival for maximum impact>
3
a : to judge to be true or probable b : intend <I calculate to do it or perish in the attempt — Mark Twain>
intransitive verb
1
a : to make a calculation b : to forecast consequences
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Origin of CALCULATE
Latin calculatus, past participle of calculare, from calculus pebble (used in reckoning), perhaps irregular diminutive of calc-, calx lime — more at chalk
Rhymes with CALCULATE
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CALCULATE Defined for Kids
calculate
verb cal·cu·late \ˈkal-kyə-ˌlāt\
cal·cu·lat·edcal·cu·lat·ing
Definition of CALCULATE for Kids
1
: to find by adding, subtracting, multiplying, or dividing : compute <calculate an average>
2
: 1estimate <She calculated the risk.>
3
: to plan by careful thought : intend <Her remark was calculated to shock her listeners.>
Word History of CALCULATE
In Latin the word calculus meant “pebble.” Because the Romans used pebbles to do addition and subtraction on a counting board, the word became associated with computation, and the phrase ponere calculos, literally, “to place pebbles,” was used to mean “to carry out a computation.” Latin words coming from calculus include calculator, “person able to do arithmetic,” and calculare, “to reckon,” from which we get the word calculate.
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