Computist

/kəmˈpjuːtɪst/ noun

Definition

A person skilled in computation or calculations; a mathematician or someone who calculates or computes.

Etymology

From Latin 'computus' (computation) plus the suffix '-ist' (meaning a person who practices). More common in historical and scholarly contexts, especially regarding ecclesiastical calendar calculations.

Kelly Says

Medieval 'computists' were among the most important scholars in monasteries—not because they had computers, but because calculating Easter (which moved yearly) required sophisticated astronomical and mathematical knowledge. Being a 'computist' was a highly prestigious technical job.

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