Meaning & Definition of word "Lemma"

Lemma

/ˈlɛm.ə/

noun:

  • 1. A variable in logic or mathematics that represents a proposition or statement which is provable from a set of axioms.
    • Example: In the proof, the lemma served as a crucial step in establishing the main theorem.
  • 2. A canonical form or base form of a word, used in dictionaries as an entry point.
    • Example: The lemma for the verb 'running' is 'run'.
  • 3. An auxiliary proposition used in an argument or proof.
    • Example: The mathematician introduced a lemma to simplify the complex proof.

Etymology

From Latin lemma, from Greek λήμμα (lēmma) meaning 'that which is received' or 'what is taken'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

lemma of a proof:

A minor or preliminary result that supports a main theorem.

working lemma:

A lemma used during the process of proving a larger theorem.

semantic lemma:

The abstract representation of a word that encompasses its variations.

Related Words

hypothesis:

A proposed explanation for a phenomenon, which is subject to testing.

theorem:

A statement that has been proven on the basis of previously established statements.

axiom:

A statement or proposition that is regarded as being self-evidently true.

Slang Meanings of lemma

Meaning: In casual conversation, 'lemma' might refer to a problem or puzzle in a light-hearted context.

Example Sentence: That math homework is such a lemma, I can't figure it out!

Meaning: A dismissive term for a minor argument or point in a debate.

Example Sentence: Don't get bogged down by lemmas; let's focus on the main issue.