cal·cu·late
(kăĺkyə-lāt́)
[Late Latin calculāre, calculāt-, from Latin calculus, small stone used in reckoning, diminutive of calx, calc-, small stone for gaming; see calx.]
verb: -lat·ed, -lat·ing, -lates.
transitive verb
- To ascertain by computation; reckon: calculating the area of a circle; calculated their probable time of arrival.
- To make an estimate of; evaluate: calculating the team's chances of winning.
- To make for a deliberate purpose; design: a sturdy car that is calculated to last for years; a choice that was calculated to please.
- Chiefly New England
- To suppose: “I cal'late she's a right smart cook” (Dialect Notes)
- To plan, intend, or count on.
intransitive verb
- To perform a mathematical process; figure: We must measure and calculate to determine how much paint will be needed.
- To predict consequences.
- Regional
- To suppose; guess.
- To count, depend, or rely on someone or something: We're calculating on your help.
derivatives
- caĺcu·látive
- adjective
synonyms:
calculate, compute, reckon, cipher, figure These verbs refer to the use of mathematical methods to determine a result. Calculate, the most comprehensive, often implies a relatively high level of abstraction or procedural complexity: The astronomer calculated the planet's position. Compute applies to possibly lengthy arithmetic operations: computing fees according to time spent. Reckon, cipher, and figure suggest the use of simple arithmetic: reckoned the number of hours before her departure; had to be taught to read and to cipher; trying to figure my share of the bill.
