probability theory

noun

, Mathematics, Statistics.

1. the theory of analyzing and making statements concerning the probability of the occurrence of uncertain events. Compare probability ( def 4 ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of probability theory¹

First recorded in 1830–40

Example Sentences

“Talagrand is an exceptionally prolific mathematician whose work has transformed probability theory, functional analysis and statistics,” the academy said in its award citation.

From New York Times

“Anthropologists, sociologists, historians and psychologists, as well as those working on probability theory and physics, took him to have important insights for their disciplines.”

From New York Times

His job has a historical pedigree—probability theory was first conceived in the sixteenth century by the mathematician and gambler Girolamo Cardano.

From Literature

Both are systems built on probability theory in which the losses of almost everyone pay for the winnings of a few.

From Literature

This was the first textbook on probability theory, and another example of how scientific knowledge flourished thanks to gambling.

From Literature