arithmetic
uh-RIHTH-muh-tihk
Arithmetic (noun) means the branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Example: “The kids are learning basic arithmetic in second grade.”
noun
1
The branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
"The kids are learning basic arithmetic in second grade."
"Simple arithmetic shows the plan will cost more than they claimed."
adjective
1
Relating to, or using, arithmetic.
"The sequence increases by an arithmetic progression, each term adding a fixed amount."
How to use arithmetic
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishBasic number maths — adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing.
Easily confused with
arithmetic (adjective, stress on third syllable) vs arithmetic (noun, stress on second)
Common pairings
basic arithmetic
mental arithmetic
simple arithmetic
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Word forms
- Plural
- arithmetics
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The kids are learning basic _____ in second grade.
Etymology
From Greek arithmetike (tekhne), "(art of) counting," from arithmos, "number."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for arithmetic
See all rhymes for arithmetic →Frequently asked questions
What does “arithmetic” mean?
The word “arithmetic” means the branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. In plain terms, basic number maths — adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing.
How do you pronounce “arithmetic”?
“Arithmetic” is pronounced uh-RIHTH-muh-tihk ([əˈɹɪθmətɪk] in IPA).
How do you use “arithmetic” in a sentence?
Here is “arithmetic” used in a sentence: “The kids are learning basic arithmetic in second grade.”
What part of speech is “arithmetic”?
Depending on how it is used, “arithmetic” can be a noun and an adjective.
Where does the word “arithmetic” come from?
The word “arithmetic” comes from Greek. From Greek arithmetike (tekhne), "(art of) counting," from arithmos, "number.".
Is “arithmetic” a common word?
“Arithmetic” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
How many meanings does “arithmetic” have?
“Arithmetic” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers: addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
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