Compute

Part of Speech

Verb

Pronunciation

/kəmˈpjuːt/

Definitions

• To determine or calculate an amount or number using mathematical or logical methods.
• To use a computer or computational methods to process data.
• To make sense logically or add up.

Usage Examples

• She used a calculator to compute the total cost of the groceries.
• The software is designed to compute large datasets in real time.
• His explanation doesn't compute; something seems off.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin "computare," meaning "to reckon, count, or calculate," which itself is formed from "com-" (together) and "putare" (to think or reckon).

Synonyms

• Calculate
• Reckon
• Estimate
• Process

Antonyms

• Guess
• Miscalculate

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /kəmˈpjuːt/
• American English: /kəmˈpjuːt/

Historical Usage

The term "compute" has been in use since the early 17th century, originally meaning "to calculate" by hand or mental estimation. With the advent of modern computers in the 20th century, its usage expanded to refer to digital computations.

Cultural Nuances

In informal contexts, "compute" is sometimes used metaphorically, as in "That doesn't compute," meaning "That doesn't make sense." In computational sciences, it refers specifically to algorithmic and digital processing.

More Information

The term "compute" has become an integral part of modern technological discussions, particularly in fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and high-performance computing. It has also led to derivatives like "computer," "computational," and "computing."