WordGarden.iocompute
B2Pronunciation
UK
- /kəmpjˈuːt/
US
- /kəmˈpjut/
Meanings
Verb
to calculate or determine a value
to process data or perform operations with a computer
to seem logical or make sense
Noun
computing power or processing resources
Beyond the definition
We often think of "compute" as something computers do – crunching numbers and solving problems! But humans compute too! When you add up the grocery bill in your head, or decide how long it will take to drive somewhere, you're computing. It means to determine something using math or logic, or even just careful thought. A chef might compute the best baking time for a cake, and a detective computes possible motives based on clues.
The word comes from Latin roots meaning "to reckon" or "to sum up." So next time you're figuring something out, remember – you're computing! It can also refer to the act of a machine processing data: "The server is currently computing the results."
To compute means to calculate, determine, or figure something out using mathematical processes, logic, or careful reasoning. While we often associate it with computers and their ability to process vast amounts of information quickly – "The computer computed the complex equation in seconds" – humans have been computing for centuries!
Before calculators existed, people used mental math, abacuses, or other tools to compute distances, costs, or quantities. A farmer might compute how much seed is needed for a field, while an architect computes the structural load of a building.
However, "compute" isn't limited to just numbers. It can also mean to consider and assess information to reach a conclusion. For example: "She computed the risks before making her decision." This implies a thoughtful process of weighing options and determining an outcome.
In computer science, computing refers to all processes involved in manipulating data with a computer or other digital device. This includes everything from writing software to analyzing information.
So whether it's a simple addition problem, a complex scientific calculation, or a careful weighing of possibilities, "compute" describes the act of figuring things out – by hand, mind, or machine.
Examples
- 1
Software totals
The software computes the total as soon as you enter the numbers.
- 2
Average score
We computed the average score after the last test.
- 3
Banking formula
The bank uses this formula to compute how much interest you owe.
- 4
Scientific calculation
Scientists can compute a planet's distance from tiny changes in its light.
- Patterncompute X from Y
calculate X using other information
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Tax calculation
In this system, your tax is computed based on your yearly income.
- Patterncomputed based on + information
calculated using it
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- compute a value
- compute the result
- compute from data
- compute by hand
Word family
Explore
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- computeverb
Forms
- computing-ing formverb
- computedpast tenseverb
- computesverb