Meaning & Definition of word "Multiply"

Multiply

/ˈmʌltɪplaɪ/

verb:

  • 1. To produce or increase in number by a process of natural reproduction or by a mathematical operation.
    • Example: If you multiply 3 by 4, you get 12.
  • 2. To increase, especially in number or quantity.
    • Example: The company aims to multiply its profits this year.
  • 3. To perform the mathematical operation of multiplication.
    • Example: In math class, we learned how to multiply fractions.
  • 4. To cause to increase in number, quantity, or degree.
    • Example: The new policies are expected to multiply opportunities for students.

Etymology

Late Middle English: from Latin multiplicare, from multiplic- 'much increased', from multus 'many' + -plicare 'to fold'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

multiply by:

To increase a number by a specified factor.

multiply one's efforts:

To put in more effort to achieve something.

multiply and divide:

Basic operations of arithmetic, often used together in calculations.

Related Words

multiplication:

The mathematical operation of adding a number to itself a certain number of times.

multiplier:

A factor by which a quantity is multiplied.

Slang Meanings of multiply

Meaning: To make more of something, often used in a casual context.

Example Sentence: We need to multiply our efforts if we want to win this game.

Meaning: To reproduce or generate more quickly.

Example Sentence: The meme multiplied across the internet overnight.