Computare

Computare is a Latin verb meaning to calculate, reckon, or compute. It belongs to the first conjugation and has the principal parts computo, computare, computavi, computatum. It follows standard 1st-conjugation endings, for example in the present active indicative: computo, computas, computat, computamus, computatis, computant; in the imperfect: computabam, computabas, computabat, computabamus, computabatis, computabant; in the future: computabo, computabis, computabit, computabimus, computabitis, computabunt. The present passive forms (for reference) follow the same pattern: computor, computaris, computatur, computamur, computamini, computantur.

Usage and meaning: In classical Latin, computare denotes counting, calculating, and reasoning, and it appears in mathematical, astronomical, legal, and administrative contexts. The related noun computus means a calculation or computation, and the concept was central to calendrical work, including the computus used to determine Easter. The verb also carried figurative senses such as planning or reckoning in general.

Etymology and descendants: The verb is formed from the prefix com- with putare (to think, reckon). From computare descend modern terms in several languages; English compute derives from Latin via Old French or related intermediaries, and French uses compter in the same semantic field. The lineage also yields related medieval Latin terms connected with computation and calendrical tables, reflecting the long-standing association between calculation and language.