# xyz

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/xyz
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

a set of three letters used to represent unknown or variable values in math and science. It is often used when you have three different things you want to measure or compare.

For teachers: a sequence of three variables or unknowns used in mathematical equations and scientific contexts. Often used in place of specific numerical values to represent a general case or to facilitate algebraic manipulation.

## Examples

- The equation uses xyz to represent the three unknowns.
- In the physics lab, the students used xyz to track the three-dimensional movement of the particle.
- The researcher noted that while the first two variables showed a clear correlation, the third, represented by xyz, remained entirely independent of the others.

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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.