mathematics
math-MAT-ihks
Mathematics (noun) means the study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships. Example: “Mathematics is my favourite subject because the answers are usually clear.”
noun
1
The study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships.
"Mathematics is my favourite subject because the answers are usually clear."
"She has a degree in mathematics from Cambridge."
"Mathematics underpins much of modern engineering."
How to use mathematics
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe formal subject and system of studying numbers, shapes, and patterns.
UK vs US
Shortened to "maths" in British English and "math" in American English.
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Etymology
From Greek mathēmatikós, "on the matter of that which is learned," from máthēma, "knowledge, learning."
Synonyms
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Rhymes for mathematics
See all rhymes for mathematics →Frequently asked questions
What does “mathematics” mean?
The word “mathematics” means the study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships. In plain terms, the formal subject and system of studying numbers, shapes, and patterns.
How do you pronounce “mathematics”?
“Mathematics” is pronounced math-MAT-ihks (/mæθ(.ə)ˈmæt.ɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “mathematics” in a sentence?
Here is “mathematics” used in a sentence: “She has a degree in mathematics from Cambridge.”
What is another word for “mathematics”?
Words with a similar meaning to “mathematics” include maths and math.
What part of speech is “mathematics”?
“Mathematics” is a noun.
Where does the word “mathematics” come from?
The word “mathematics” comes from Greek. From Greek mathēmatikós, "on the matter of that which is learned," from máthēma, "knowledge, learning.".
Is “mathematics” a common word?
“Mathematics” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between mathematics and arithmetic?
Arithmetic is the branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers, such as addition and multiplication, while mathematics is the much wider study of numbers, quantities, shapes, and their relationships. Arithmetic is just one part of mathematics.
Is "mathematics" singular or plural?
Although it ends in "s," "mathematics" is treated as singular and takes a singular verb, as in "mathematics is my favourite subject." The final "s" reflects the word's form, not a plural meaning.
What is the difference between "math" and "maths"?
Both are informal short forms of "mathematics" with exactly the same meaning. "Math" is standard in American English, while "maths" is used in British and Commonwealth English.
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