Calculus
/ˈkæl.kjʊ.ləs/noun
A branch of mathematics involving derivatives and integrals.
Did you know?Originally, the term 'calculus' referred to small stones used for counting and calculations in ancient times, linking mathematics to the physical world.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*kal-
“to be hard, to set, or to call”
Latin
Latin
calculus
“a small stone used for counting or calculations”
Late Latin
Late Latin
calculus
“a pebble or stone used as a counter in calculations”
Medieval Latin
Medieval Latin
calculus
“a method of calculation or reckoning, especially in reference to mathematics”
17th Century
English
calculus
“an abstract mathematical system involving limits, derivatives, and integrals”