Definitions for calculusˈkæl kyə ləs; -ˌlaɪ

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Random House Webster's College Dictionary

cal•cu•lusˈkæl kyə ləs; -ˌlaɪ(n.)(pl.)-li; -lus•es.

  1. a method of calculation, esp. one of several highly systematic methods of treating problems by a special system of algebraic notations, as differential or integral calculus.

    Category: Math

  2. a stone, or concretion, formed in the gallbladder, kidney, or other part of the body.

    Category: Pathology

  3. a hard, yellowish to brownish black deposit on teeth formed largely through the calcification of dental plaque; tartar.

    Category: Dentistry

  4. calculation:

    the calculus of political appeal.

    Category: Common Vocabulary

Origin of calculus:

1610–20; < L: pebble, small stone (used in reckoning)

Princeton's WordNet

  1. calculus, concretion(noun)

    a hard lump produced by the concretion of mineral salts; found in hollow organs or ducts of the body

    "renal calculi can be very painful"

  2. tartar, calculus, tophus(noun)

    an incrustation that forms on the teeth and gums

  3. calculus, infinitesimal calculus(noun)

    the branch of mathematics that is concerned with limits and with the differentiation and integration of functions

Wiktionary

  1. calculus(Noun)

    calculation, computation

  2. calculus(Noun)

    Any formal system in which symbolic expressions are manipulated according to fixed rules.

  3. calculus(Noun)

    Differential calculus and integral calculus considered as a single subject; analysis.

  4. calculus(Noun)

    A stony concretion that forms in a bodily organ.

    renal calculus ( = kidney stone)

  5. calculus(Noun)

    Deposits of calcium phosphate salts on teeth.

  6. calculus(Noun)

    A decision-making method, especially one appropriate for a specialised realm.

  7. Origin: calculus, diminutive of calx + -ulus.

Webster Dictionary

  1. Calculus(noun)

    any solid concretion, formed in any part of the body, but most frequent in the organs that act as reservoirs, and in the passages connected with them; as, biliary calculi; urinary calculi, etc

  2. Calculus(noun)

    a method of computation; any process of reasoning by the use of symbols; any branch of mathematics that may involve calculation


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