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noun Uncommon

multiplication

muhl-tihp-lih-KAY-shuhn

Multiplication (noun) means the mathematical operation of combining a number with itself a set number of times to produce a total, e.g. 4 x 5 = 20. Example: “The kids practised their multiplication tables after school.”

noun
1
The mathematical operation of combining a number with itself a set number of times to produce a total, e.g. 4 x 5 = 20.
"The kids practised their multiplication tables after school."
2
A rapid increase in number or amount.
"The multiplication of social media platforms has changed how news spreads."

How to use multiplication

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe maths operation of repeated addition, or more generally a rapid increase in something.

Common pairings
multiplication table multiplication sign

Word forms

multiplications plural

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The kids practised their _____ tables after school.

Etymology

From Old French multiplicacion, from Latin multiplicatio, built from multiplicare ("to multiply").

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for multiplication

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Frequently asked questions

What does “multiplication” mean?

The word “multiplication” means the mathematical operation of combining a number with itself a set number of times to produce a total, e.g. 4 x 5 = 20. In plain terms, the maths operation of repeated addition, or more generally a rapid increase in something.

How do you pronounce “multiplication”?

“Multiplication” is pronounced muhl-tihp-lih-KAY-shuhn (/ˌmʌltɪplɪˈkeɪʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “multiplication” in a sentence?

Here is “multiplication” used in a sentence: “The kids practised their multiplication tables after school.”

What is the opposite of “multiplication”?

The opposite of “multiplication” — its antonyms — is division.

What part of speech is “multiplication”?

“Multiplication” is a noun.

Where does the word “multiplication” come from?

The word “multiplication” comes from Latin. From Old French multiplicacion, from Latin multiplicatio, built from multiplicare ("to multiply").

Is “multiplication” a common word?

“Multiplication” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “multiplication” have?

“Multiplication” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the mathematical operation of combining a number with itself a set number of times to produce a total, e.g. 4 x 5 = 20.

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