math
n. · v.-
1 the subject or science (n.) A1 Beginner American English Maththe study of numbers, shapes, and logic.
the abstract science of number, quantity, and space, studied as a discipline or applied to other fields.
ExampleI always enjoyed math in high school because I liked solving puzzles.
ExampleAdvanced math requires a high degree of abstract reasoning and a solid grasp of foundational algebraic principles.
UsageIn North America, the word is uncountable and does not take an 's' at the end.
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2 calculations (n.) A2 Elementary American English Informal Maththe act of calculating numbers to find an answer.
the process of performing arithmetic calculations to reach a specific result.
ExampleIf you do the math, you will see that buying the larger box is cheaper.
ExampleThe investors did the math and realized the projected profits would not cover the initial overhead costs.
Teacher's tipThe phrase 'do the math' is a very common idiom meaning to look at the facts to reach an obvious conclusion.
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3 to calculate or make sense (v.) C1 Advanced Slang Informalto do calculations; also used to say that a situation makes sense.
to perform mathematical operations; used figuratively in slang to describe whether a situation is logical.
ExampleI tried to figure out the bill, but the numbers just aren't mathing today.
ExampleThe witness's story simply isn't mathing, as the timeline he provided contradicts the security footage.
UsageOften used in the progressive form 'mathing' in modern internet slang.
Clipping of mathematics.
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.
Contraction of matha.