algebra

[ al-juh-bruh ]

noun

1. the branch of mathematics that deals with general statements of relations, utilizing letters and other symbols to represent specific sets of numbers, values, vectors, etc., in the description of such relations.
2. any of several algebraic systems, especially a ring in which elements can be multiplied by real or complex numbers linear algebra as well as by other elements of the ring.
3. any special system of notation adapted to the study of a special system of relationship:

   algebra of classes.

algebra

/ ˌældʒɪˈbreɪɪst; ˈældʒɪbrə /

noun

1. a branch of mathematics in which arithmetical operations and relationships are generalized by using alphabetic symbols to represent unknown numbers or members of specified sets of numbers
2. the branch of mathematics dealing with more abstract formal structures, such as sets, groups, etc

algebra

/ ăl′jə-brə /

1. A branch of mathematics in which symbols, usually letters of the alphabet, represent numbers or quantities and express general relationships that hold for all members of a specified set.

Derived Forms

• algebraist, noun

Other Words From

• pre·alge·bra noun adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of algebra¹

1535–45; < Medieval Latin < Arabic al-jabr literally, restoration

Word History and Origins

Origin of algebra¹

C14: from Medieval Latin, from Arabic al-jabr the bone-setting, reunification, mathematical reduction

Example Sentences

“There was nothing magical about the remaining ballots,” McCoy says, calling the calculation “a simple algebra problem.”

From Los Angeles Times

"Instead of sitting there looking at the board trying to solve the algebra problem, you're sitting thinking, when I get home, what am I going to eat?"

From BBC

Witnesses said the suspect left an algebra lesson on Wednesday morning only to return later and try to re-enter the classroom.

From BBC

Why is the letter x used for an unknown quantity in algebra?

From Salon

But scientists have discovered that people can still do algebra and play chess even with aphasia.

From New York Times

Related Words

• calculation
• calculus
• geometry
• math