multiply
MUHL-tihp-leye
Multiply (verb) means to perform the mathematical operation that combines a number with itself a given number of times. Example: “Multiply six by seven and you get forty-two.”
verb
1
To perform the mathematical operation that combines a number with itself a given number of times.
"Multiply six by seven and you get forty-two."
"To find the area of the room, multiply its length by its width."
"Pupils learn to multiply small numbers before they try larger ones."
2
To increase greatly in number or amount.
"Rabbits multiply quickly if left unchecked."
"Her problems seemed to multiply the longer she ignored them."
"Weeds will multiply across the whole garden if you ignore them."
How to use multiply
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishTo combine numbers mathematically, or more broadly to grow rapidly in number.
Common pairings
multiply by
multiply rapidly
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Word forms
- Plural
- multiplies
- Third person singular
- multiplies
- Past tense
- multiplied
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
_____ six by seven and you get forty-two.
Etymology
From Old French multiplier, from Latin multiplicare, built from multi- ("many") and plicare ("to fold").
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “multiply” mean?
The word “multiply” means to perform the mathematical operation that combines a number with itself a given number of times. In plain terms, to combine numbers mathematically, or more broadly to grow rapidly in number.
How do you pronounce “multiply”?
“Multiply” is pronounced MUHL-tihp-leye (/ˈmʌltɪplaɪ/ in IPA).
How do you use “multiply” in a sentence?
Here is “multiply” used in a sentence: “Multiply six by seven and you get forty-two.”
What is another word for “multiply”?
Words with a similar meaning to “multiply” include manifold.
What part of speech is “multiply”?
“Multiply” is a verb.
Where does the word “multiply” come from?
The word “multiply” comes from Latin. From Old French multiplier, from Latin multiplicare, built from multi- ("many") and plicare ("to fold").
Is “multiply” a common word?
“Multiply” is an uncommon word in modern English, usually learned at around the B2 level.
How many meanings does “multiply” have?
“Multiply” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: to perform the mathematical operation that combines a number with itself a given number of times.
