quadratic
n.n. a mathematical equation that includes a variable raised to the power of two. It usually looks like ax² + bx + c = 0.
n. a polynomial equation of the second degree, typically expressed in the form ax² + bx + c = 0. The term also describes a function whose highest degree term is squared.
The student solved the quadratic equation using the formula.
To find the roots of the quadratic, you can use the quadratic formula or complete the square.
The trajectory of the projectile follows a parabolic path, which is a classic example of a quadratic function in physics.
From French quadratique (1765), from Latin quadrātus + -ique (English -ic), form of quadrō (“I make square”), from quādrus (“square”), ultimately from Proto-Indo-European *kʷetwóres (“four”), whence also Latin quartus (“fourth”).