calculus

[ kal-kyuh-luhs ]

noun

, plural cal·cu·li [kal, -ky, uh, -lahy], cal·cu·lus·es.

1. Mathematics. a method of calculation, especially one of several highly systematic methods of treating problems by a special system of algebraic notations, as differential or integral calculus.
2. Pathology. a stone, or concretion, formed in the gallbladder, kidneys, or other parts of the body.
3. Also called tartar. Dentistry. a hard, yellowish to brownish-black deposit on teeth formed largely through the mineralization of dead bacteria in dental plaques by the calcium salts in salivary secretions and subgingival transudates.
4. calculation; estimation or computation:

   the calculus of political appeal.

calculus

/ ˈkælkjʊləs /

noun

1. a branch of mathematics, developed independently by Newton and Leibniz. Both differential calculus and integral calculus are concerned with the effect on a function of an infinitesimal change in the independent variable as it tends to zero
2. any mathematical system of calculation involving the use of symbols
3. logic an uninterpreted formal system Compare formal language
4. -li-ˌlaɪ pathol a stonelike concretion of minerals and salts found in ducts or hollow organs of the body

calculus

/ kăl′kyə-ləs /

, Plural calculi kăl′kyə-lī′

1. The branch of mathematics that deals with limits and the differentiation and integration of functions of one or more variables.
2. See more at calculus of variations
3. A solid mass, usually composed of inorganic material, formed in a cavity or tissue of the body. Calculi are most commonly found in the gallbladder, kidney, or urinary bladder.
4. Also called stone

calculus

1. The branch of mathematics , usually studied after algebra , that provides a natural method for describing gradual change.

Notes

Most modern sciences use calculus.

Word History and Origins

Origin of calculus¹

1610–20; < Latin: pebble, small stone (used in reckoning), equivalent to calc- (stem of calx stone) + -ulus -ule

Word History and Origins

Origin of calculus¹

C17: from Latin: pebble, stone used in reckoning, from calx small stone, counter

Example Sentences

In the end, Roberts’ said the team’s decision will come down to a simple calculus.

From Los Angeles Times

The calculus is based on a 2015 prophesy by Iran’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei, that within 25 years, the Jewish state would disappear.

From Los Angeles Times

Last week's extraordinary targeting of thousands of Hezbollah operatives through their pagers and walkie-talkies seems to have altered the calculus.

From BBC

If that calculus is ever to change, investments like those championed by Harris must be made — and not treated as a political football.

From Los Angeles Times

“Do I think I underestimated some factors and overestimated some others? Sure. Do I think that there were calculations and calculuses that I made? Yes,” Porter went on.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• algebra
• calculation
• geometry
• math