calculating

[ kal-kyuh-ley-ting ]

adjective

1. capable of or made for performing calculations, especially arithmetical calculations:

   a calculating machine.

2. shrewd; cautious:

   a wise and calculating lawyer.

3. selfishly scheming:

   a cold and calculating dictator.

   Synonyms: designing

calculating

/ ˈkælkjʊˌleɪtɪŋ /

adjective

1. selfishly scheming
2. shrewd; cautious

Derived Forms

• ˈcalcuˌlatingly, adverb

Other Words From

• calcu·lating·ly adverb
• non·calcu·lating adjective
• un·calcu·lating adjective
• un·calcu·lating·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of calculating¹

First recorded in 1800–10; calculat(e) + -ing ²

Example Sentences

The effects of RealPage's scheme was far-reaching; at least half of the country's landlords reportedly ate from the trough, calculating that even if rent hikes resulted in vacancies, they would still make larger profits.

From Salon

To prepare for her role as a calculating vixen in the miniseries “Fresno,” a satire of television’s popular evening soaps, Teri Garr had to force herself to do something she had never done before.

From Los Angeles Times

Unlike her irresponsible and erratic-tempered brother, she’s calculating and stoic and knows that regardless of how she dresses or speaks or what she does, she’ll never be rid of that Hangman notoriety.

From Salon

Iran also is calculating between saving face by standing up to Israel while also hoping to minimize antagonizing the West as it seeks relief from sanctions and possibly a reopening of negotiations over the international Iran nuclear deal, drafted and signed by President Obama and six other world powers but jettisoned by President Trump.

From Los Angeles Times

A lot goes into calculating the energy rates you see on your monthly electric bill — construction and maintenance of power plants, fuel costs, and much more.

From Salon

Related Words

• canny
• considerate
• devious
• manipulative
• scheming
• shrewd
• wily