Cāl'cu-lāte1, v. t.
v. t. [imp. & p. p. CALCULATED; p. pr. & vb. n. CALCULATING.] [Lat. calculatus, p. p. of calculare, from calculus, pebble, used on the counting-board; Fr. calculer, Sp. calcular, It. calculare.]
Sense 1. To ascertain or determine by mathematical processes, usually by the ordinary rules of arithmetic; to reckon; to compute; as, to calculate expenses; to calculate the motions of the heavens.
A calendar more exactly calculated than any other that was before. North.
Sense 2. To compute, or ascertain by reckoning, the peculiarities or attendant circumstances of; as, to calculate an eclipse, or a nativity.
A cunning man did calculate my birth. Shak.
Sense 3. To adjust by computation; to fit or prepare by the adaptation of the means to the end; as, to calculate a system of laws for a free people.
Religion is calculated for our benefit. Tillotson.
Synonyms— To compute; reckon; count; estimate; rate. — To CALCULATE, COMPUTE, RECKON, COUNT. These words indicate the means by which we arrive at a given result in regard to quantity. We calculate with a view to obtain a certain point of knowledge; as, to calculate an eclipse. We compute by combining given numbers, in order to learn the grand result. We reckon and count in carrying out the details of a computation. These words are also used in a secondary and figurative sense. “Calculate is rather a conjectural deduction from what is, as to what may be; computation is a rational estimate of what has been, from what is; reckoning is a conclusive conviction, a pleasing assurance that a thing will happen; counting indicates an expectation. We calculate on a gain; compute any loss sustained, or the amount of any mischief done; we reckon on a promised pleasure; we count the hours and minutes until the time of enjoyment arrives.” Crabb.