binomial

[ bahy-noh-mee-uhl ]

noun

1. Algebra. an expression that is a sum or difference of two terms, as 3 x + 2 y and x 2 − 4 x.
2. Zoology, Botany. a taxonomic name consisting of a generic and a specific term, used to designate species.

adjective

1. Algebra. consisting of or pertaining to two terms or a binomial.
2. Zoology, Botany. consisting of or characterized by binomials.

binomial

/ baɪˈnəʊmɪəl /

noun

1. a mathematical expression consisting of two terms, such as 3 x + 2 y
2. a two-part taxonomic name for an animal or plant See binomial nomenclature

adjective

1. referring to two names or terms

binomial

/ bī-nō′mē-əl /

1. A mathematical expression that is the sum of two monomials, such as 3 a + 2 b.

Derived Forms

• biˈnomially, adverb

Other Words From

• bi·nomi·al·ism noun
• bi·nomi·al·ly adverb

Word History and Origins

Origin of binomial¹

1550–60; < Late Latin binōmi ( us ) having two names (compare Latin binōminis ) + -al ¹. See bi- ¹, nominal

Word History and Origins

Origin of binomial¹

C16: from Medieval Latin binōmius from bi- ¹+ Latin nōmen name

Example Sentences

The genus is the first part of the two-part species naming system called “binomial nomenclature.”

From Science News For Students

Oughtred lays great stress upon expansions of powers of a binomial.

From Project Gutenberg

You might as well try to rush the Proof of the Binomial Theorem.

From Project Gutenberg

For the reference to Ascanius' work, which is on the binomial system, and subsequent to the 10th edit.

From Project Gutenberg

M. Méray wants to prove that a binomial equation always has a root, or, in ordinary words, that an angle may always be subdivided.

From Project Gutenberg

A chapter catches my attention in the middle of the volume; it is headed, Newton's Binomial Theorem.

From Project Gutenberg