Computable

/kəmˈpjuːtəbəl/ adjective

Definition

Able to be calculated, computed, or determined by mathematical or logical methods.

Etymology

From Latin 'computabilis', from 'computare' (to count, calculate, together + putare 'to reckon'). The term became especially important in computer science and mathematical logic in the 20th century.

Kelly Says

Before computers existed, mathematicians asked which functions were 'computable'—and discovered that some answers exist but are fundamentally beyond any algorithm's reach, which still profoundly shapes what we ask computers to solve today.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.