mathematics

Definitions

From Greek mathēma 'that which is learned' (from manthanein, 'to learn'). ta mathēmatika meant 'the things one learns,' but among the Pythagoreans this narrowed to the study of number and shape. So a word for learning in general became the name of one subject. The -ics ending (like physics, politics) names a field of study; it is plural in form but takes a singular verb.

Why It Means This

The word hides a much older meaning. mathēma simply meant 'what is learned' — any subject. It became 'mathematics' only because the Greeks (especially the Pythagoreans) regarded the study of number as the highest, purest form of learning. So inside the word for one school subject sits the ancient idea of learning itself.

Usage Guide

Example Sentences

• 1.

  She studied mathematics at university before becoming an engineer.

• 2.

  Mathematics is the language used to describe the laws of physics.

• 3.

  He has always been better at mathematics than at writing.