cal·cu·late (kāl'kyə-lāt') v.
cal·cu·lat·ed, cal·cu·lat·ing, cal·cu·lates
v.
tr.
To ascertain by computation; reckon: calculating the area of a circle; calculated their probable time of arrival.
To make an estimate of; evaluate: calculating the team's chances of winning.
To make for a deliberate purpose; design: a sturdy car that is calculated to last for years; a choice that was calculated to please.
also cal'late (kāl'āt', -lāt') Chiefly New England
To suppose: "I cal'late she's a right smart cook"(Dialect Notes).
To plan, intend, or count on.
v.
intr.
To perform a mathematical process; figure: We must measure and calculate to determine how much paint will be needed.
To predict consequences.
Regional
To suppose; guess.
To count, depend, or rely on someone or something: We're calculating on your help.
[Late Latin calculāre, calculāt-, from Latin calculus, small stone used in reckoning, diminutive of calx, calc-, small stone for gaming; see calx.] cal'cu·la'tive (-lā'tĭv, -lə-tĭv) adj.
Synonyms: These verbs refer to the use of mathematical methods to determine a result. Calculate, the most comprehensive, often implies a relatively high level of abstraction or procedural complexity: The astronomer calculated the planet's position. Compute applies to possibly lengthy arithmetic operations: computing fees according to time spent. Reckon, cipher, and figure suggest the use of simple arithmetic: reckoned the number of hours before her departure; had to be taught to read and to cipher; trying to figure my share of the bill.
cal·cu·lat·ed (kāl'kyə-lā'tĭd) adj.
Determined by mathematical calculation.
Undertaken after careful estimation of the likely outcome: took a calculated risk.
Made or planned to accomplish a certain purpose; deliberate: insincere, calculated modesty.