multiplicative inverse

noun

: an element of a mathematical set that when multiplied by a given element yields the identity element

called also reciprocal

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

multiplicative inverse

noun

: an element (as a reciprocal) of a mathematical set that when multiplied by a given element gives the identity element

in the set of all rational numbers the multiplicative inverse of 2 is ½ since 2 × ½ = 1