First Known Use: 1666
Dictionary
calculus
noun cal·cu·lus \-ləs\
: an advanced branch of mathematics that deals mostly with rates of change and with finding lengths, areas, and volumes
plural cal·cu·li\-ˌlī, -ˌlē\ also cal·cu·lus·es
Full Definition of CALCULUS
1
a : a method of computation or calculation in a special notation (as of logic or symbolic logic) b : the mathematical methods comprising differential and integral calculus —often used with the
2
3
a : a concretion usually of mineral salts around organic material found especially in hollow organs or ducts b : 1tartar 2
4
: a system or arrangement of intricate or interrelated parts
See calculus defined for English-language learners
See calculus defined for kids
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of CALCULUS
Latin, stone (used in reckoning)
Related to CALCULUS
- Synonyms
- arithmetic, calculation, ciphering, computation, figures, figuring, math, mathematics, number crunching, numbers, reckoning
Other Mathematics and Statistics Terms
CALCULI Defined for Kids
calculus
noun cal·cu·lus \ˈkal-kyə-ləs\
Definition of CALCULUS for Kids
: a branch of mathematics that deals mostly with rates of change and with finding lengths, areas, and volumes
Medical Dictionary
calculus
noun cal·cu·lus \-ləs\
plural cal·cu·li \-ˌlī, -ˌlē\ also cal·cu·lus·es
Medical Definition of CALCULUS
1
: a concretion usually of mineral salts around organic material found especially in hollow organs or ducts
2
: a concretion on teeth : tartar
Learn More About CALCULUS
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: calculus of classesPrevious Word in the Dictionary: calculousAll Words Near: calculus
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up calculus? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).