An arithnometer is a historical calculating device, specifically a type of mechanical calculator, that was designed to perform arithmetic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. It typically consists of a series of gears and levers that allow users to input numbers and obtain results through mechanical means. The term can also refer to any device or tool that aids in numerical calculations. While largely obsolete today, arithnometers played a crucial role in the development of computing technology.