Quadratic

/kwɒˈdrætɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A polynomial of degree two.

The expression x² - 4x + 4 is a quadratic.

adjective

Relating to or in the form of a quadratic equation.

The quadratic function has a parabolic graph.

Involving the second power of an unknown quantity or variable.

To find the roots, we need to apply the quadratic formula.

Etymology

From Latin quadratus, meaning 'square'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

quadratic equation

An equation of the form ax² + bx + c = 0 where a, b, and c are constants.

quadratic function

A function defined by a quadratic polynomial.

quadratic formula

The formula used to find the roots of a quadratic equation.

Related Words

parabola

A symmetrical open plane curve formed by the intersection of a cone with a plane parallel to its side.

polynomial

An algebraic expression consisting of variables and coefficients, involving only the operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and non-negative integer exponents.

Slang Meanings

Quadratic riddle

That math problem was a real quadratic riddle to solve.

Quadratic grind

I have to hit that quadratic grind on my homework tonight.