[math-uh-mat-iks] 
| 1. | (used with a singular verb ) the systematic treatment of magnitude, relationships between figures and forms, and relations between quantities expressed symbolically. |
| 2. | (used with a singular or plural verb) mathematical procedures, operations, or properties. |
| math·e·mat·ics (māth'ə-māt'ĭks) n. (used with a sing. verb) The study of the measurement, properties, and relationships of quantities and sets, using numbers and symbols. [From Middle English mathematik, from Old French mathematique, from Latin mathēmatica, from Greek mathēmatikē (tekhnē), mathematical (science), feminine of mathēmatikos, mathematical; see mathematical.] |
The study of numbers, equations, functions, and geometric shapes (see geometry) and their relationships. Some branches of mathematics are characterized by use of strict proofs based on axioms. Some of its major subdivisions are arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus.
| mathematics (māth'ə-māt'ĭks) Pronunciation Key
The study of the measurement, relationships, and properties of quantities and sets, using numbers and symbols. Arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and calculus are branches of mathematics. |
