DictionaryRoot: calculus
Latin
calculus
counting pebble; reckoning
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noun
calculus
KAL-kyuh-lus/ˈkælkjələs/
A formal mathematical system for deriving results by rules.
Etymology
Latin calculus shifted from a pebble used in counting to reckoning itself. It then named a mathematical method; the modern branch dealing with change and accumulation takes its shortened name from 'differential calculus.'