calculator

[kal-kyuh-ley-ter]

noun

1. a person who calculates or computes.

2. Also called calculating machine. a small electronic or mechanical device that performs calculations, requiring manual action for each individual operation.

3. a person who operates such a machine.

4. a set of tables that facilitates calculation.

calculator

/ ˈkælkjʊˌleɪtə /

noun

1. a device for performing mathematical calculations, esp an electronic device that can be held in the hand

2. a person or thing that calculates

3. a set of tables used as an aid to calculations

calculator

1. An electronic device for performing automatic mathematical computations, usually controlled by a keyboard. Some are actually small computers, with limited memory, that allow the user to use simple programs.

Other Word Forms

• minicalculator noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of calculator¹

First recorded in 1375–1425; late Middle English, from Latin; calculate, -tor

Example Sentences

Pascal was just 19 years old when he developed the earliest version of a calculator, Christie's said.

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The AI panic is no different from the reaction when calculators and computers first entered classrooms.

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The click, click, click of their fingers running across the ten-by-ten gray manual keyboards of their calculators resonated throughout the room.

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These include the earliest dated set of European navigation instruments found thus far: compasses, protractors, calipers, sounding leads, tide calculators, and a device for calculating speed called a log reel.

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Also use investment calculators and review your financial plans regularly to keep track of how you’re doing and where you’re going.

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