calculate Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. verb make a mathematical calculation or computation
    cypher; compute; work out; reckon; cipher; figure.
  2. verb judge to be probable
    figure; reckon; forecast; estimate; count on.
  3. verb keep an account of
    account.
  4. verb predict in advance
    forecast.
  5. verb specifically design a product, event, or activity for a certain public
    aim; direct.
  6. verb have faith or confidence in
    count; depend; look; reckon; bet.
    • you can count on me to help you any time
    • Look to your friends for support
    • You can bet on that!
    • Depend on your family in times of crisis

WordNet


Cal"cu*late intransitive verb
Etymology
L, calculatus, p. p. of calculate, fr. calculus a pebble, a stone used in reckoning; hence, a reckoning, fr. calx, calcis, a stone used in gaming, limestone. See Calx.
Wordforms
imperfect & past participle Calculater ; present participle & verbal noun Calculating
Definitions
  1. To ascertain or determine by mathematical processes, usually by the ordinary rules of arithmetic; to reckon up; to estimate; to compute.
    A calencar exacity calculated than any othe. North.
  2. 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; as, to calculate or cast one's nativity.
    A cunning man did calculate my birth. Shak.
  3. To adjust for purpose; to adapt by forethought or calculation; to fit or prepare by the adaptation of means to an end; as, to calculate a system of laws for the government and protection of a free people.
    [Religion] is . . . calculated for our benefit. Abp. Tillotson.
  4. To plan; to expect; to think. Local, U. S. Syn. -- To compute; reckon; count; estimate; rate. -- To Calculate, Compute. Reckon, Count. These words indicate the means by which we arrive at a given result in regard to quantity. We calculate with a view to obtain a certain point of knowledge; as, to calculate an eclipse. We compute by combining given numbers, in order to learn the grand result. We reckon and count in carrying out the details of a computation. These words are also used in a secondary and figurative sense. "Calculate is rather a conjection from what is, as to what may be; computation is a rational estimate of what has been, from what is; reckoning is a conclusive conviction, a pleasing assurance that a thing will happen; counting indicates an expectation. We calculate on a gain; we compute any loss sustained, or the amount of any mischief done; we reckon on a promised pleasure; we count the hours and minutes until the time of enjoyment arrives" Crabb.
Cal"cu*late intransitive verb
Definitions
  1. To make a calculation; to forecast caonsequences; to estimate; to compute.
    The strong passions, whether good or bad, never calculate. F. W. Robertson.

Webster 1913