Calculate - the etymology comes from the latin word for pebbles. In Roman times, man-powered taxis would have a bingo-like device that rolls with the axis of the wheel, depositing a pebble for each rotation into a basket below. At the end of the ride, the driver/runner would calculate the pebbles that got dropped into the basket, thus figuring out the distance, and the cost, of the ride.

Cal"cu*late (?), v. i. [imp. & p. p. Calculater (?); p. pr. & vb. n. Calculating (?).] [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.]

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.

 

© Webster 1913.


Cal"cu*late (?), v. i.

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.

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