metamathematics

[met-uh-math-uh-mat-iks]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. the logical analysis of the fundamental concepts of mathematics, as number, function, etc.

metamathematics

/ ˌmɛtəˌmæθɪˈmætɪks /

noun

1. (functioning as singular) the logical analysis of the reasoning, principles, and rules that control the use and combination of mathematical symbols, numbers, etc

Other Word Forms

• metamathematical adjective
• metamathematician noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of metamathematics¹

First recorded in 1885–90; meta- + mathematics

Example Sentences

Soon it dawned on a few insightful souls, Godel foremost among them, that this way of looking at things opened up a brand-new branch of mathematics--namely, metamathematics.

From Time Magazine Archive