noun
adder
A person or device that adds numbers.
The circuit uses an adder to combine two binary numbers.
Etymology
Latin addere supplies the idea of putting things together. The English ending -er names whoever or whatever performs that operation, including a person or machine that totals numbers.
More examples
- An adder handles one stage of the calculation.
- The technician tests the processor's adders separately.
- An efficient human adder checks the figures without a calculator.
Forms
adder · adders
Similar words
- calculator
- Performs a wider range of mathematical operations.
- counter
- Usually tracks successive items rather than adding arbitrary values.