Definition of CALCULUS

calculus

Plural: calculi, calculuses

Noun

  • A branch of mathematics dealing with rates of change and accumulation.
  • a hard lump produced by the concretion of mineral salts; found in hollow organs or ducts of the body
  • an incrustation that forms on the teeth and gums
  • the branch of mathematics that is concerned with limits and with the differentiation and integration of functions
  • Calculation; computation.
  • Any formal system in which symbolic expressions are manipulated according to fixed rules.
  • Differential calculus and integral calculus considered as a single subject.
  • A stony concretion that forms in a bodily organ.
  • Deposits of calcium phosphate salts on teeth.
  • A decision-making method, especially one appropriate for a specialised realm.

Examples

  • I took calculus in high school.
  • lambda calculus
  • predicate calculus
  • Solving the Scrabble board felt like a complex calculus problem, optimizing every letter.

Origin / Etymology

* Borrowed from Latin calculus (“a pebble or stone used as reckoning counters in abacus”), diminutive of calx (“limestone”) + -ulus.
* Mathematical topic is from differential calculus.

Synonyms

concretion, infinitesimal calculus, tartar, tophus, calculation, calculus, ciphering, computation, computing, dental calculus, reckoning, stone, supputation

Scrabble Score: 12

calculus: valid Scrabble (US) TWL Word
calculus: valid Scrabble Word in Merriam-Webster MW Dictionary
calculus: valid Scrabble Word in International Collins CSW Dictionary

Words With Friends Score: 18

calculus: valid Words With Friends Word