Meaning & Definition of word "Algebra"
to
Algebra
/ˈæl.dʒə.brə/
noun:
- 1. A branch of mathematics dealing with symbols and the rules for manipulating those symbols; it involves the study of mathematical expressions, equations, and functions.
- Example: In algebra, we use letters to represent numbers in equations.
- 2. A specific set of mathematical principles and techniques, often taught in schools as part of the curriculum.
- Example: She struggled with algebra until she started practicing more regularly.
- 3. A form of mathematics that incorporates variables and constants to solve problems.
- Example: Solving quadratic equations is a common topic in algebra classes.
Etymology
From Middle English, from Latin 'algebra', derived from Arabic 'al-jabr', meaning 'reunion of broken parts'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
algebraic expression:
A mathematical phrase that can contain numbers, variables, and operators.
linear algebra:
A branch of algebra concerning vector spaces and linear mappings.
quadratic equation:
An equation of the form ax² + bx + c = 0.
Related Words
variable:
A symbol used to represent an unknown quantity in mathematical expressions.
equation:
A statement that two expressions are equal, usually containing an equal sign.
expression:
A combination of numbers, variables, and operators without an equality sign.
Slang Meanings of algebra
Meaning: Algebra makes my head hurt.
Example Sentence: Dude, I can't deal with this; algebra makes my head hurt!
Meaning: Doing algebra is like pulling teeth.
Example Sentence: Working on these problems feels like doing algebra is like pulling teeth.