compute

[kuhm-pyoot]

verb (used with object)

computed, computing 

1. to determine by calculation; reckon; calculate.

   These early astronomers computed the period of Jupiter's revolution.

   Synonyms: figure, count, estimate

2. to determine by using a computer or calculator.

verb (used without object)

computed, computing 

1. to reckon; calculate.

2. to use a computer or calculator.

3. Informal.,  to make sense; add up.

   His reasons for doing that just don't compute.

noun

1. computation.

   Outer space is vast beyond compute.

2. the processing, memory, and storage resources required for a computer, network, or program to function.

   To meet today's business demands, you need a solid foundation of compute.

adjective

1. relating to or comprising the processing, memory, and storage resources required for a computer or program to function.

   The system uses intelligent load balancing so as to maximally utilize the available compute power.

compute

/ kəmˈpjuːt /

verb

1. to calculate (an answer, result, etc), often with the aid of a computer

noun

1. calculation; computation (esp in the phrase beyond compute )

Other Word Forms

• computability noun
• computable adjective
• computably adverb
• computist noun
• miscompute verb
• precompute verb
• recompute verb (used with object)
• uncomputable adjective
• uncomputableness noun
• uncomputably adverb
• uncomputed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of compute¹

First recorded in 1375–1425, for an earlier sense; 1580–90 compute for def. 6; (for the verb) from Latin computāre, from com- com- + putāre “to think”; (for the noun) late Middle English from Middle French from Late Latin computus “calculation, number,” noun derivative of computāre; count ¹, putative

Word History and Origins

Origin of compute¹

C17: from Latin computāre, from putāre to think

Example Sentences

The best he’ll do is trust they know he’s computed their running speed against the rate of the closing doors to ensure the humans make it in the nick of time.

From Salon

She and three colleagues from Scottish tech firm Skyscanner are studying at Glasgow University as part of a new project to bolster the dwindling ranks of computing teachers.

From BBC

All these, plus advances in computing power and a better understanding of the physics of a hurricane through more data and research, have led to the significant improvements.

From BBC

"There was some respite for parents ahead of the new academic year, with lower prices for clothing, books, stationery, and computing."

From BBC

The author maintains that GPT-5’s disappointing performance has shattered the fundamental “scaling up” principle that underpins AI development—the belief that more computing power and data will lead to artificial general intelligence.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• figure out 
• gauge