compute

UK: kəmˈpjuːt | US: kəmˈpjuːt

Definition
  1. vt. to calculate or determine by mathematical methods

  2. vt. to process data using a computer

  3. n. (rare) the act or result of computation

Structure
com <together>pute <think, reckon>
Etymology

compute = com<together> + pute<think, reckon>

  • com: Latin prefix meaning "together" or "with."
  • pute: From Latin putare, meaning "to think, reckon, or prune." In modern usage, it relates to calculation or logical processing.

Etymology Origin:
The word compute originates from Latin computare ("to sum up, reckon together"), combining com- (intensifying "together") and putare (originally "to prune," later "to think/calculate"). The term evolved through Old French (compter) and Middle English to its current form, reflecting a shift from general reasoning to precise mathematical calculation—especially after the rise of computers in the 20th century.

Examples
  1. Scientists use supercomputers to compute complex climate models.

  2. Can you compute the total cost including taxes?

  3. Early astronomers computed planetary orbits by hand.

  4. The algorithm computes results in milliseconds.

  5. His job involves computing statistical data for research.