mathematical
Americanadjective
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of, relating to, or of the nature of mathematics.
mathematical truth.
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employed in the operations of mathematics.
mathematical instruments.
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having the exactness, precision, or certainty of mathematics.
- Synonyms:
- rigorous, meticulous, precise, exact
adjective
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of, used in, or relating to mathematics
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characterized by or using the precision of mathematics; exact
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using, determined by, or in accordance with the principles of mathematics
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of mathematical
1400–50; late Middle English < Latin mathēmatic ( us ) pertaining to mathematics + -al 1
Explanation
Anything mathematical has to do with the science of numbers and shapes, or is as precise and exact as a mathematical calculation. If you weigh your new puppy's food on a digital scale each morning, you can say you're feeding her with mathematical precision. And when you work on problems in algebra class, you're most likely using mathematical formulas to solve them. Mathematical is derived from the Greek mathēmatike tekhnē, "mathematical science," and its root, which means "to learn."
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Brighton still have a mathematical chance of overtaking Aston Villa for the fifth and final definite Champions League qualification place but are eight points behind with just three games left.
From BBC • May 4, 2026
The cuts would slash funding for mathematical and physical sciences, including chemistry and biology, as well as engineering and geosciences initiatives.
From Salon • May 2, 2026
After a few months of back-and-forth, his last envelope contained a message: “Mr. Havens, at this time you have surpassed my mathematical ability, and I wish you luck on your journey.”
From Slate • May 2, 2026
Using detailed mathematical calculations and computer simulations, the researchers showed that these effects can dramatically reshape planetary systems.
From Science Daily • Apr. 19, 2026
If you need to review the mathematical concepts, please see Musical Intervals, Frequency, and Ratio9 and Powers, Roots, and Equal Temperament.
From "Understanding Basic Music Theory" by Catherine Schmidt-Jones and Russel Jones
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
