computation

noun

com·​pu·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-pyu̇-ˈtā-shən 

-pyü-

1

a

: the act or action of computing : calculation

b

: the use or operation of a computer

2

: a system of reckoning

3

: an amount computed

computational

ˌkäm-pyu̇-ˈtā-sh(ə-)nəl 

-pyü-

adjective

computationally adverb

Synonyms of computation

• calculation
• math
• arithmetic

Examples of computation in a Sentence

methods used for the computation of taxes

The solution required a series of computations.

Recent Examples on the Web

This literally cataclysmic[6] event was preceded by algebraic computations that were never just representational, as might be more the case for geometry, but were from the outset proactive. — Artforum, 28 Sep. 2026

The 30-logical-qubit demonstration represents an important data point in the industry’s effort to move from isolated quantum experiments toward machines capable of executing increasingly long and reliable computations. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 25 Sep. 2026

Can sensitive data, intellectual property and critical information remain protected not only when they are stored or transmitted, but throughout the computation itself? — Dr. Najwa Aaraj, Forbes.com, 24 Sep. 2026

Quantum computation gives researchers an avenue to explore computational problems that might take too long or be inaccurate if done otherwise. — Pera Onal, Baltimore Sun, 23 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for computation

• abdication
• aberration
• abjuration
• abnegation
• abrogation
• acceptation
• acclamation
• acclimation
• accusation
• activation
• actuation
• acylation

Kids Definition

computation

noun

com·​pu·​ta·​tion ˌkäm-pyu̇-ˈtā-shən 

1

: the act or action of computing : calculation

2

: a system of calculating especially by mathematical means

3

: an amount computed

computational

-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

adjective