To calculate is to determine an amount, quantity, or rate by mathematical means. In other words, it is to figure something out. When we calculate, we use numbers and equations to find a solution.
There are many different ways to calculate things. For example, we can use mental math when we do the math in our heads without writing anything down. This can be helpful for simple calculations like adding up a grocery list in your head as you shop. Or we can use more formal methods like a pencil and paper or a calculator.
The word calculates its roots in the Latin word calculus, which means small stone. This is likely because early counting was done by using pebbles or gravel.
The word first appeared in English in the late 14th century as a verb meaning to count or compute. However, over time, it came to be used more specifically for mathematical calculations.
Today, we use the word both as a verb and a noun.
When used as a verb, it typically refers to making mathematical calculations.
As a noun, it can refer either to the act of calculation or to something that has been calculated (such as a number).