# matrix

/ˈmeɪtɹɪks/ (US) · /mˈeɪtɹɪks/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/matrix
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. mathematical grid

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic · Technical

a set of numbers or symbols arranged in rows and columns.

For teachers: a rectangular array of quantities or expressions in rows and columns that is treated as a single entity and manipulated according to particular rules.

- The computer uses a large matrix of numbers to calculate the 3D graphics.
- To solve the system of linear equations, the students first had to represent the coefficients as a three-by-three matrix.

Usage: The plural form is usually 'matrices', though 'matrixes' is occasionally seen in non-technical contexts.

### 2. surrounding material

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

the substance or material that surrounds and holds something else.

For teachers: the substance or environment in which something else is enclosed or embedded, such as the material between cells or the rock surrounding a fossil.

- The fossil was still stuck inside the stone matrix when the scientists found it.
- The extracellular matrix provides essential structural and biochemical support to the surrounding cells in animal tissues.

### 3. system of control

noun · CEFR C1 · Slang · Informal

a complex system or social structure that controls people's lives.

For teachers: a social or political environment perceived as a deceptive, all-encompassing system that limits individual freedom or perception.

- Some people use the term 'the matrix' to describe the rules of modern society.
- Online subcultures often discuss escaping 'the matrix', referring to a perceived societal trap of debt and conventional employment.

Teaching tip: This sense is heavily influenced by the 1999 film 'The Matrix' and is frequently used in modern internet slang to describe societal manipulation.

### 4. a mold

noun · CEFR C2 · Technical · Archaic

a mold or shape used to create something else.

For teachers: a mold or die used for casting or shaping, particularly in traditional printing or metalwork.

- The printer used a copper matrix to cast the lead letters for the book.
- In traditional hot metal typesetting, the matrix served as the master mold from which individual characters were cast.

## Examples

- The computer program stores the data in a large matrix.
- The fossils were found embedded in a matrix of hard limestone and clay.
- The researcher argued that the social matrix of the 19th century was essential for the rapid development of these specific cultural movements.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.