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.