Simple Definition of compute

from our Learner's Dictionary

compute

verb

computes; computed; computing
: to find out (something) by using mathematical processes : calculate
compute a batting average
compute your income tax

Note: In informal U.S. English, something that does not compute does not make sense.

Cite this Entry

“Compute.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/compute. Accessed 18 Jun. 2026.

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