Calculate

(thing) by tongpoo Sun Nov 11 2001 at 10:39:31
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.
(definition) by Webster 1913 Tue Dec 21 1999 at 22:19:03

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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