addition rule

noun

: a rule in statistics: the probability of any one of a set of mutually exclusive events occurring is the sum of the probabilities of the individual events

Word History

First Known Use

1889, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of addition rule was in 1889

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near addition rule

Cite this Entry

“Addition rule.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/addition%20rule. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!