Definition

Noun: A small, portable electronic device used for performing mathematical calculations, designed to be easily held in one hand or carried in a clothing pocket.

Usage

This term refers specifically to a handheld, battery-powered computing device for arithmetic. It is a common, everyday item. - He used a pocket calculator to quickly add up the bill. - Before smartphones, students relied on a pocket calculator for math exams.

Advanced Usage

• As a defining characteristic: The term emphasizes portability and personal use, distinguishing it from larger, desktop calculators or computational tools.
  • The engineer always carried a pocket calculator, a slide rule, and a notepad.

Variants and Related Words

• Calculator (n): The general term for any device that performs calculations. A pocket calculator is a type of calculator.
• Handheld calculator (n): A near-synonym that emphasizes it is operated while held in the hand.

Synonyms

• Handheld calculator
• Portable calculator

Notes

The term "pocket calculator" is a compound noun. Its meaning is directly derived from its components: "pocket" (indicating size and portability) and "calculator" (indicating function). It is typically used as a single, fixed concept.

Noun

1. a calculator small enough to hold in the hand or carry in a pocket