calculating

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

Having the ability to calculate.

Adjective

Examples

an early calculating device

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

Serving one's own interests in an unemotional, analytical manner.

Adjective

Examples

Following the sentencing, Knutton said: "What sort of person does something so cold and calculating? I did not expect her to go to jail for it. I am just glad it is now all over."

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “calculating” mean?

Having the ability to calculate.

Is “calculating” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.