algebra

The definition of algebra is a type of math that focuses on demonstrating the properties and relationships of abstract things in symbolic form.

(noun)

Graphing, absolute value equations and scientific notation are each an example of a topic in algebra.

See algebra in Webster's New World College Dictionary

noun

a mathematical system using symbols, esp. letters, to generalize certain arithmetic operations and relationships (Ex.: x + y = x represents a unique relationship between x and y, and has an infinite number of examples, as 3 + 6 = 9)
any of various symbolic mathematical systems having formal rules of operation, defined relationships, finite processes, etc.: Boolean algebra
a textbook or treatise dealing with algebra

Origin: ME < ML < Ar al-jabr, the reunion of broken parts < al, the + jabara, to reunite

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See algebra in American Heritage Dictionary 4

noun

A branch of mathematics in which symbols, usually letters of the alphabet, represent numbers or members of a specified set and are used to represent quantities and to express general relationships that hold for all members of the set.
A set together with a pair of binary operations defined on the set. Usually, the set and the operations include an identity element, and the operations are commutative or associative.

Origin:

Origin: Middle English, bone-setting

Origin: , and Italian, algebra

Origin: , both from Medieval Latin

Origin: , from Arabic al-jabr (wa-l-muqābala), the restoration (and the compensation), addition (and subtraction)

Origin: : al-, the

Origin: + jabr, bone-setting, restoration (from jabara, to set (bones), force, restore; see gpr in Semitic roots)

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