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

So brokers and employers can put down the red pen and calculator for a moment. — Tim Pratte, Forbes.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Since launching in 2022, IMPALA’s calculator has become the tool of choice for 100 labels in twenty-one countries. — Literary Hub, 3 Sep. 2026

The calculator can show you how larger payments can accelerate your payoff date. — Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 2 Sep. 2026

Individuals should feel free to invest 15% of their household income into retirement (using the investment calculator from Ramsey Solutions to see how their money could grow in a year). — Tabitha Parent, PEOPLE, 31 Aug. 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