noun B1 Intermediate Uncommon

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

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

Relating to, or using, arithmetic.

"The sequence increases by an arithmetic progression, each term adding a fixed amount."

How to Use Arithmetic

Learner’s notes

In 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

Word Forms

arithmetics plural

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The kids are learning basic _____ in second grade.

Etymology

From Greek arithmetike (tekhne), "(art of) counting," from arithmos, "number."

Origin: Greek

Rhymes for arithmetic

poetic genetic heretic kinetic ascetic magnetic cosmetic athletic diabetic pathetic copacetic aesthetic

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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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Vocabulary lists that include arithmetic:

Words With Greek Origins