English dictionary, thesaurus, translations & etymology

verb B2 Upper-Intermediate Uncommon

compute

kuhm-PYOOT

Compute (verb) means to calculate a numerical value or result. Example: “The software computes the total tax owed automatically.”

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verb

1

To calculate a numerical value or result.

"The software computes the total tax owed automatically."

noun

1

(informal, technology) Computational processing power or resources.

"The startup needed more compute to train its model."

How to use compute

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishTo work out a value by calculation, or (informally) processing power itself.

Easily confused with

computation → computer →

Common pairings

compute a result cloud compute

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

computed past tense, computes singular

Test yourself on “compute” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

The software _____ the total tax owed automatically.

Etymology

Borrowed from French computer, from Latin computare, "to calculate." A doublet of "count."

Origin: Latin

Synonyms

figure calculate reckon cipher cypher work out

Related words

time think number nothing body form view price

Rhymes for compute

ute cute mute lute flute acute haute brute chute route minute refute

See all rhymes for compute →

Frequently asked questions

What does “compute” mean?

The word “compute” means to calculate a numerical value or result. In plain terms, to work out a value by calculation, or (informally) processing power itself.

How do you pronounce “compute”?

“Compute” is pronounced kuhm-PYOOT (/kəmˈpjut/ in IPA).

How do you use “compute” in a sentence?

Here is “compute” used in a sentence: “The software computes the total tax owed automatically.”

What part of speech is “compute”?

Depending on how it is used, “compute” can be a verb and a noun.

Where does the word “compute” come from?

The word “compute” comes from Latin. Borrowed from French computer, from Latin computare, "to calculate." A doublet of "count.".

Is “compute” a common word?

“Compute” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.

How many meanings does “compute” have?

“Compute” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to calculate a numerical value or result.

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time think number nothing body form view price

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial