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Papers and electronic calculators are common tools for calculation.


From Latin calculātus, perfect passive participle of calculō (I reckon, originally by means of pebbles), from calculus (a pebble).


  • IPA(key): /ˈkæɫkjuːleɪt/


calculate (third-person singular simple present calculates, present participle calculating, simple past and past participle calculated)

  1. (transitive, mathematics) To determine the value of something or the solution to something by a mathematical process.
    Calculate the square root of 3 to 10 decimal places.
  2. (intransitive, mathematics) To determine values or solutions by a mathematical process; reckon.
  3. (intransitive, US, dialect) To plan; to expect; to think.
  4. To ascertain or predict by mathematical or astrological computations the time, circumstances, or other conditions of; to forecast or compute the character or consequences of.
    to calculate or cast one's nativity
  5. To adjust for purpose; to adapt by forethought or calculation; to fit or prepare by the adaptation of means to an end.
    • Archbishop Tillotson
      [Religion] is [] calculated for our benefit.
    to calculate a system of laws for the government and protection of a free people


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  1. second-person plural present active imperative of calculō
    1. "calculate ye, compute ye"
    2. (figuratively) "consider ye as, esteem ye"



  1. vocative masculine singular of calculātus