ENGLISH
REFERENCE

math

n. uncountable
A1 Beginner US //ˈmæθ// UK //mˈæθ// math Archaic Informal Slang

n. the study of numbers, shapes, and patterns. You use it to solve problems like counting money or measuring space.

n. the science of numbers, quantities, and shapes and the relations between them. This form is the standard North American abbreviation of mathematics.


SIMPLE

I need to practice my math skills for the test.

CONTEXTUAL

She decided to major in math because she enjoyed solving complex logic puzzles and equations.

COMPLEX

While the basic principles of math are universal, the curriculum focuses heavily on applying these concepts to real-world engineering and architectural challenges.

Synonyms
Etymology 1

Clipping of mathematics.

Etymology 2

From Middle English math, from Old English mǣþ (“a mowing, that which is mown, cutting of grass”), from Proto-Germanic mēþą (“a mowing”), from Proto-Indo-European h₂meh₁- (“to mow”); equivalent to mow + -th (abstract nominal suffix). Cognate with German Mahd (“a mowing, reaping”), West Frisian mêd (“area of land that can be mown in one day; domain, realm”). Related also to Old English mǣd (“mead, meadow, pasture”). See meadow.

Etymology 3

Contraction of matha.

Usage

Used primarily in American and Canadian English; British English uses 'maths'.

Pitfall

The math are difficult.Math is difficult.Math is uncountable and takes a singular verb, even though it is an abbreviation of the plural-sounding 'mathematics'.

Idioms2 entries

© 2026 English Reference