An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

An electronic device which can accept data, apply a series of logical instructions rapidly, and supply the results of the processes as information.

Etymology (EN): From → compute + suffix → -er.

Etymology (PE): Râyângar “arranger, organizer,” on the model of Fr. ordinateur according to which the electronic device arranges/organizes instructions and information. Râyângar, from râyân- stem of râyânidan “to regulate, set in order,” from Mid.Pers. râyânīdan “to arrange, organize”

• -gar agent suffix. Râyân-, from rây-,
  Mod.Pers. ârây-, ârâyeš, ârâyidan “to arrange, adorn,” Mid.Pers. ârây-, ârâstan “to arrange, adorn;” O.Pers. rād- “to prepare,” rās- “to be right, straight, true,” rāsta- “straight, true” (Mod.Pers. râst “straight, true”); Av. rāz- “to direct, put in line, set,” razan- “order;” Gk. oregein “to stretch out;” L. regere “to lead straight, guide, rule,” p.p. rectus “right, straight;” Skt. rji- “to make straight or right, arrange, decorate;” PIE base *reg- “move in a straight line;” see also → direct.