Math Definitions

Math is a complex subject, encompassing everything from simple addition to calculus. Persons who choose to major in the subject in college and post-graduate work often become an expert on one area.

In elementary school, math often consists of addition, subtraction, multiplication, division and some introductory algebra or geometry. Once students reach the high school level and beyond, math is often taught in segments, focusing on one at a time. However, having basic knowledge of all areas of math is an asset to any student in the field.

Use a dictionary that provides math definitions to break down challenging concepts, find information related to a particular area, or to look up unknown terms.

YourDictionary’s Math Definition Resources

YourDictionary provides a listing of resources to use when looking up math terms. Found in the specialty section under the heading “Mathematics,” these dictionaries provide a wide range of definitions for math words. Some dictionaries to visit include:

• Glossary of Mathematics from Cut the Knot: This extensive glossary provides information related to almost every field of math. Definitions often include diagrams, links to other definitions, and historical information. Some even have interactive Java applications, such as the Hjelmslev Theorem.
• Historical Dictionary of Mathematical Terms: A compilation of various historical figures in mathematics and the earliest known (or found) uses of various terms. Words are not defined or explained extensively, if at all; names, dates, and other historical information are simply listed for each term.
• Math Online Labs Math Glossary: A small assembly of commonly used mathematics terms. Formulas are usually given within definitions. This glossary is geared towards those who are all ready somewhat familiar with basic upper level math.

Those who have an interest in foreign languages may find the Finnish-English-Swedish Glossaries of Mathematics useful as well.

Online Mathematics Dictionaries

A number of online mathematics dictionaries and glossaries exist to give math definitions to students at all levels of learning. Persons who are engaged in high level, complex mathematics may find using an academic dictionary focusing on their subject the most useful. These dictionaries will provide math definitions for most people:

• Illustrated Mathematics Dictionary from MathsIsFun: This dictionary provides colorful explanations of most elementary and middle school terms. For example, the term imaginary numbers results in an illustrated example, along with a short definition. Links to other related terms are included with many of the defined words.
• mathwords.com: Scroll through this site to find the word needing definition, or search by subject area—geometry, trigonometry, probability & statistics, advanced topics, and more. Definitions are more advanced, and often are supplemented by illustrations and links to other related terms. Symbols can be found by looking them up by their English spelling.
• A Math Dictionary for Kids 2007: Colorful, illustrated, and interactive, this is a great resource for elementary math students. Kids will find it easy to look up any unknown words. Examples of each term are provided in the lower box, below the definition.
• Math Words, and Some Other Words, of Interest: Over 900 words relating to math and logical thought are complied in this listing of definitions. Written for the reader, these definitions are often easy to understand and provide examples and illustrations if necessary.
• Math.com Glossary: A short listing of commonly used math words. While perhaps not the most extensive listing, it does give to-the-point definitions. Students may find it useful to visit other areas of this math-related site for math help and practice.

As mentioned earlier, specialized dictionaries can be helpful to those who are working in one area of mathematics. To find such dictionaries, check out the math section of a library or use an internet search engine to find academic glossaries. An example of one glossary is the Math Open Reference, which contains information and definitions relating to geometrical terminology.

Looking up math symbols can be difficult if the English word for them is unknown. In this instance, use a dictionary with an emphasis on symbols, like the listings found at Mathematical Symbols. Scroll through to find the symbol needed. Information on what the symbol is, how it is read, how it is used, and an example is given for symbols is listed.