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

For the math portion, no calculators are allowed. —Lily Kepner, Austin American Statesman, 3 Feb. 2026

In the clip, she could be seen going to a thrift store and picking up old remotes, keyboards and calculators. —Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 29 Jan. 2026

The typewriter, copier and calculator were being replaced by the personal computer and other electronic devices. —Michael Bernick, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026

Other than state health care and Boise’s significantly lower utility costs, the calculator shows the city averaging higher across state costs and national costs. —Hali Smith, Idaho Statesman, 27 Jan. 2026

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