compute
Americanverb (used with object)
verb (used without object)
-
to reckon; calculate.
-
to use a computer or calculator.
-
Informal. to make sense; add up.
His reasons for doing that just don't compute.
noun
-
Outer space is vast beyond compute.
-
the processing, memory, and storage resources required for a computer, network, or program to function.
To meet today's business demands, you need a solid foundation of compute.
adjective
verb
noun
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of compute
First recorded in 1375–1425, for an earlier sense; 1580–90 compute for def. 6; (for the verb) from Latin computāre, from com- com- + putāre “to think”; (for the noun) late Middle English from Middle French from Late Latin computus “calculation, number,” noun derivative of computāre; cf. count 1, putative
Explanation
When you solve a mathematical problem, you compute the answer. To compute is to calculate, either literally or figuratively. Computers do the math for you, faster than humans ever can. You'll often hear someone say that something "does not compute." This means it doesn't add up, it doesn't make sense. You might compute how long it will take you to get to school or the likelihood that your mother will let you stay out late.
Vocabulary lists containing compute
Academic Vocabulary: Core Tier 2 Words, List 4
Looking to grow your vocabulary? Check out this interactive, curated word list from our team of English language specialists at Vocabulary.com – one of over 17,000 lists we've built to help learners worldwide!
The Number System
Interested in learning more words like this one? Our team at Vocabulary.com has got you covered! You can review flashcards, quiz yourself, practice spelling, and more – and it's all completely free to use!
Number and Operations: Fractions
Want to remember this word for good? Start your learning journey today with our library of interactive, themed word lists built by the experts at Vocabulary.com – we'll help you make the most of your study time!
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Both are useful for inference, the next phase of AI compute needs.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 17, 2026
It’s also a massive savings in terms of efficiency and compute, according to Khan.
From The Wall Street Journal • May 14, 2026
Wix is integrating AI, including a proprietary large-language model, but faces front-loaded compute costs from increased AI usage.
From Barron's • May 13, 2026
The massive need for compute is likely driving Cerebras’s high valuation, Martin said, but he expects that to be tested after the company goes public and releases its first earnings report.
From MarketWatch • May 13, 2026
When she saw the massive dome of craggy black and brown squares, the word turtle simply did not compute.
From "The House of Hades" by Rick Riordan
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
