Mathematics Definition, Meaning, and Examples

Meaning 1：the science of numbers and shapes (mathematics)

mathematics 🔊

/ˌmæθəˈmætɪks/

The subject in school about numbers, shapes, and how to work with them using rules.

Mathematics classroom with chalkboard equations and geometric shapes

the science of numbers and shapes 🔊

➕

/ðə ˈsaɪəns əv ˈnʌmbərz ænd ʃeɪps/

The academic discipline that deals with numbers, quantities, shapes, patterns, and their relationships, used in education to develop logical reasoning and problem-solving skills.

📁 Category：School Education 🔖 Level：beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

From Greek 'mathema' (learning, knowledge) via Latin 'mathematica'.

💡 Mnemonic

Think: 'Math' is 'matic' (automatic) logic for solving puzzles.

📖 Example

He always enjoyed mathematics because it helped him understand the patterns behind building designs. 🔊 He always enjoyed mathematics because it helped him understand the patterns behind building designs.

🔗 Collocations

mathematics teacher – an educator specializing in teaching the subject of mathematics

applied mathematics – the branch of mathematics used in practical fields like physics and engineering

mathematics problem – a question or exercise requiring mathematical reasoning to solve

🔄 Synonyms

math (n.) – Informal short form of mathematics

arithmetic (n.) – The branch of mathematics dealing with basic operations on numbers

geometry (n.) – The branch of mathematics concerned with shapes and spatial relationships

🚫 Antonyms

illiteracy (n.) – The inability to read or write, opposite of the learning involved in mathematics

art (n.) – A field focused on creative expression rather than logical rules, contrasting with mathematics

🌱 Derivatives

mathematical (adj.) – relating to or using mathematics

mathematically (adv.) – in a way that involves or uses mathematics

mathematician (n.) – a person who studies or specializes in mathematics

📖 Cultural Story

Originating from ancient Greek philosophers like Pythagoras, mathematics evolved as the study of quantity, structure, space, and change, forming the foundation of modern science and technology.