mathematics
noun
math·e·mat·ics
ˌmath-ˈma-tiks 
ˌma-thə-
plural in form but usually singular in construction
1
: the science of numbers and their operations (see operation sense 5), interrelations, combinations, generalizations, and abstractions and of space (see space entry 1 sense 7) configurations and their structure, measurement, transformations, and generalizations
Algebra, arithmetic, calculus, geometry, and trigonometry are branches of mathematics.
2
: a branch of, operation in, or use of mathematics
the mathematics of physical chemistry
Examples of mathematics in a Sentence
I can't do the mathematics in my head, so I'll need a pen and paper
Recent Examples on the Web
Since then, students pursuing science, technology, engineering and mathematics majors have had the chance to enroll directly in a calculus class with extra support in the form of a concurrent class.
—
Tammi Marshall, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
His father, John, was a jazz musician and doctor of dental surgery, and his mother, Rita, was a mathematics teacher.
—Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 18 Feb. 2026
Affleck now takes over Damon's role of Will Hunting, a mathematics prodigy with a difficult life — only now it's set in a Dunkin' and takes on a sitcom feel.
—Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Feb. 2026
The Department of Education also deploys literacy and mathematics coaches in low-performing elementary schools to assist educators.
—Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 14 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for mathematics
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Tammi Marshall, San Diego Union-Tribune, 18 Feb. 2026
His father, John, was a jazz musician and doctor of dental surgery, and his mother, Rita, was a mathematics teacher.
—Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 18 Feb. 2026
Affleck now takes over Damon's role of Will Hunting, a mathematics prodigy with a difficult life — only now it's set in a Dunkin' and takes on a sitcom feel.
—Nick Romano, Entertainment Weekly, 9 Feb. 2026
The Department of Education also deploys literacy and mathematics coaches in low-performing elementary schools to assist educators.
—Theara Coleman, TheWeek, 14 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for mathematics
Cite this Entry
“Mathematics.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/mathematics. Accessed 23 Feb. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
mathematics
noun
math·e·mat·ics
ˌmath-ə-ˈmat-iks
math-ˈmat-
: the science that is concerned with numbers and their properties, relations, and operations and with shapes in space and their structure and measurement
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