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

Tools such as Fidelity’s retirement calculators can help graduates see how even small contributions made early in their careers can grow over time through compounding and employer matching. —Vanessa Duplessie, Forbes.com, 31 May 2026

Criticisms The calculator is part of an effort to build support for the governor’s proposal and push back against criticisms, particularly over its potential impact on local government finances. —Milena Malaver, Miami Herald, 30 May 2026

For retirees ready to move from accumulation to income, RetireWizard's free annuity calculator quiz delivers a personalized income estimate in under 60 seconds. —Daniel Fusch, USA Today, 28 May 2026

Chris Weatherspoon grabbed his calculator and worked out how much each Premier League side earned in 2025-26. —Phil Hay, New York Times, 25 May 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