computerize
Meaning
to provide a computer or computers to do the work of something
to store information electronically using a computer
Structure
Usage
the library plans to computerize its catalog system next year.
many factories have been computerized to increase efficiency and reduce errors.
they decided to computerize the payroll process to save time.
Etymology
the word 'computerize' is a modern english formation built upon the older noun 'computer'. the core morpheme 'compute' originates from the latin 'computare', meaning 'to sum up, reckon, or calculate', itself derived from 'com-' (together) and 'putare' (to reckon, think). the suffix '-er' was added to create the agent noun 'computer', originally referring to a person who performs calculations. with the advent of electronic machines, 'computer' was transferred to the machine itself. the final addition of the verb-forming suffix '-ize', of ancient greek origin, creates the modern meaning 'to equip with or convert to the use of computers', illustrating a clear semantic evolution from the act of calculation to the process of automation.
Analysis
- compute: from latin 'computare' (to calculate, reckon together), meaning to perform a calculation. - er: from old english '-ere', an agent suffix indicating a person or thing that performs an action. - ize: from greek '-izein' via latin '-izare', a verb-forming suffix meaning 'to make, to become, to treat with'.