calculator

noun

cal·​cu·​la·​tor ˈkal-kyə-ˌlā-tər 

: one that calculates: such as

a

: a usually electronic device for performing mathematical calculations

b

: a person who operates a calculator

Examples of calculator in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

With those questions answered, turn to a free online calculator, where you will be prompted to plug in the variables that apply to you. —Jill Schlesinger, Mercury News, 30 Sep. 2025

For instance, a family of four making $130,000 could see their monthly insurance premiums nearly double to $1,716 from $921, according to a calculator by KFF. —Erin Doherty, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2025

After all, calculators are more reliable than mental math. —Alexis Kayser, MSNBC Newsweek, 24 Sep. 2025

To be safe, parents should touch base with each college under consideration to inquire if the net price calculator on its website is updated and reflects the school’s current costs and financial aid policies. —Susan Alaimo, USA Today, 19 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English calkelatour "one who counts or computes, mathematician," borrowed from Latin calculātōr-, calculātor "teacher of arithmetic," from calculā- (attested in Late Latin as the stem of calculāre "to count, calculate") + -tōr-, -tor, agent suffix

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing calculator

• pocket calculator

Rhymes for calculator

• activator
• actuator
• agitator
• alligator
• allocator
• alternator
• animator
• annotator
• applicator
• arbitrator
• aspirator
• aviator

Kids Definition

calculator

noun

cal·​cu·​la·​tor ˈkal-kyə-ˌlāt-ər 

1

: one that calculates

2

: a usually small electronic device for making mathematical calculations