fundamental group

noun

: a set that is a subset of all paths defined on a set of points each pair of which is joined by a path and that is the quotient group of the group of all paths beginning and ending in a given point

Examples of fundamental group in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The fundamental group is effectively a list of loops on the manifold (and all their combinations) that encode information about the manifold’s shape. Jordana Cepelewicz, Quanta Magazine, 15 June 2023

Word History

First Known Use

1945, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fundamental group was in 1945

Dictionary Entries Near fundamental group

Cite this Entry

“Fundamental group.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fundamental%20group. Accessed 25 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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