subtrahend

[ suhb-truh-hend ]

noun

, Arithmetic.

1. a number that is subtracted from another.

subtrahend

/ ˈsʌbtrəˌhɛnd /

noun

1. the number to be subtracted from another number (the minuend )

subtrahend

/ sŭb′trə-hĕnd′ /

1. A number subtracted from another. For example, in the expression 4 − 3, 3 is the subtrahend.

Word History and Origins

Origin of subtrahend¹

1665–75; < Latin subtrahendum, neuter gerund of subtrahere; subtract

Word History and Origins

Origin of subtrahend¹

C17: from Latin subtrahendus, from subtrahere to subtract

Example Sentences

Because log ratios are obtained by subtraction, a previous multiplication of minuend and subtrahend by a correction factor will not be eliminated.

From Science Magazine

In arithmetic operations it holds the addend, subtrahend, multiplicand, or divisor.

From Project Gutenberg

The subtrahend is placed under the minuend to be drawn from it.

From Project Gutenberg

It may seem a matter of trivial importance whether the pupil increases the subtrahend number or decreases the minuend number when he subtracts digits that involve taking or borrowing; and yet investigation proves that to increase the subtrahend number is by far the simpler process, and eliminates both a source of waste and a source of error, which, in the aggregate, may assume a significance to mental economy that is well worth considering.

From Project Gutenberg

We should, therefore, beware of the error to which in our unspirituality we are specially liable; and when we hear Christ assert that "whosoever committeth sin is the slave of sin," we should believe and know, that these words are not extravagant, and contain no subtrahend,—that they indicate a self-enslavement of the human will which is so real, so total, and so absolute, as to necessitate the renewing grace of God in order to deliverance from it.

From Project Gutenberg