subtraction

noun

sub·​trac·​tion səb-ˈtrak-shən 

: an act, operation, or instance of subtracting: such as

a

: the withdrawing or withholding of a right to which an individual is entitled

b

: the operation of deducting one number from another

Synonyms

• deduction

Examples of subtraction in a Sentence

The children are learning addition and subtraction.

the restaurant may not have raised the price, but there's definitely been a subtraction in the number of fries in a side order

Recent Examples on the Web

Cocker’s lessons covered addition, subtraction, multiplication and division, as well as calculation with pre-decimal British currency and a gentle introduction to 17th-century England’s bamboozling array of weights and measures. —James Fox, Smithsonian Magazine, 19 Dec. 2024

Another half say that discontinuing Graham's column would be addition by subtraction, as Graham's views are a narrow representation of Christianity and out of touch with Central Indiana's larger faith scene. —Eric Larsen, The Indianapolis Star, 14 Dec. 2024

In the case of former captain Stefon Diggs, the Bills anticipate addition by subtraction. —Tim Graham, The Athletic, 23 July 2024

There were significant subtractions and additions at receiver but returnees Bryson Green and Will Pauling lead the way. —Antonio Morales, The Athletic, 21 Aug. 2024

Word History

Etymology

Middle English subtraccion, from Anglo-French sustraction, subtraction, from Late Latin subtraction-, subtractio, from Latin subtrahere

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

subtraction

noun

sub·​trac·​tion səb-ˈtrak-shən 

1

: an act or instance of subtracting

2

: the operation of deducting one number from another