compute

verb

com·pute | \ kəm-ˈpyüt

computed; computing

Definition of compute

: to determine especially by mathematical means Compute the area of the triangle. also : to determine or calculate by means of a computer computing pi to over one billion places

intransitive verb

1 : to make calculation : reckon They compute by weight in selling grain.

2 : to use a computer

3 informal : to make sense No matter how you do the math, it will not work … . It simply does not compute.— Chuck Finder

Synonyms More Example Sentences Learn More About compute

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Examples of compute in a Sentence

for the test we were required to compute the answers without using a calculator

Recent Examples on the Web What are the factors traditionally used to compute premiums? — BostonGlobe.com, 7 June 2021 There is the action-planner portion of the AI driving system that tries to compute what next actions of the autonomous vehicle are most prudent to take. — Lance Eliot, Forbes, 23 June 2021 Other airlines use a combination of factors to compute the value of miles and points, including distance, ticket types and partnerships with other airlines. — Dallas News, 14 Apr. 2021 But there’s also the reality that jumping back headfirst into a world which requires quick decision-making with multiple variables can be tiring to compute. — Rachel Besser, Vogue, 11 May 2021 Calculations that involve millions of inputs would take thousands of years for today’s processors to compute. — Moneyshow, Forbes, 5 May 2021 The idea that the US government can go on spending simply doesn’t compute to anyone who operates a household budget. — Danielle Seurkamp, Forbes, 28 Apr. 2021 During that same period those residences sold on average for more than twice the value used to compute property taxes. — Thiru Vignarajah, WSJ, 16 Apr. 2021 Computations And Calculations To compute is to calculate, literally and figuratively. — Russ Banham, Forbes, 21 Apr. 2021

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'compute.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.