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matrix
[ mey-triks, ma- ]
/ ˈmeɪ trɪks, ˈmæ- /
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noun, plural ma·tri·ces [mey-tri-seez, ma-], /ˈmeɪ trɪˌsiz, ˈmæ-/, ma·trix·es.
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Origin of matrix
1325–75; Middle English matris, matrix<Latin mātrix female animal kept for breeding (Late Latin: register, originally of such beasts), parent stem (of plants), derivative of māter mother
Words nearby matrix
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Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
How to use matrix in a sentence
British Dictionary definitions for matrix
matrix
/ (ˈmeɪtrɪks, ˈmæ-) /
noun plural matrices (ˈmeɪtrɪˌsiːz, ˈmæ-) or matrixes
Word Origin for matrix
C16: from Latin: womb, female animal used for breeding, from māter mother
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
© William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins
Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012
Scientific definitions for matrix
matrix
[ mā′trĭks ]
Plural matrices (mā′trĭ-sēz′, măt′rĭ-) matrixes
Geology The mineral grains of a rock in which fossils are embedded.
Biology The component of an animal or plant tissue that is outside the cells. Bone cells are embedded in a matrix of collagen fibers and mineral salts. Connective tissue consists of cells and extracellular fibers in a liquid called ground substance. Also called extracellular matrix
Mathematics A rectangular array of numeric or algebraic quantities subject to mathematical operations.
Anatomy The formative cells or tissue of a fingernail, toenail, or tooth.
The American Heritage® Science Dictionary
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