precalculus

American  

[pree-kal-kyuh-luhs] / priˈkæl kyə ləs /

adjective

1. pertaining to the mathematical prerequisites for the study of calculus, as algebra, analytical geometry, and trigonometry.

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noun

1. the course of study leading to calculus.

Etymology

Origin of precalculus

First recorded in 1960–65; pre- + calculus

Example Sentences

He attended Gaspar De Portola Middle School’s highly gifted magnet and is the only Chaminade freshman taking precalculus math.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 9, 2022

The middle school I attended has three eighth-graders taking precalculus, a math class typically taken in high school; none of them were offered admission.

From Washington Post • May 27, 2022

Inmates can take classes in literature, astronomy, American government, precalculus and others to earn an Associate of Arts degree.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 19, 2022

In lieu of traditional calculus prerequisites such as precalculus or college algebra, the engineering faculty launched a contextualized math course in 2004.

From Scientific American • Mar. 15, 2022

Apparently, class has started without our knowing, because Mr. Applebaum, who is ostensibly teaching us precalculus but is mostly teaching me that pain and suffering must be endured stoically, says, "You feel what, Tiny?"

From "Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan