Meaning & Definition of word "Algebra"

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.