precalculus

American  

[pree-kal-kyuh-luhs] / priˈkæl kyə ləs /

adjective

1. pertaining to the mathematical prerequisites for the study of calculus, as algebra, analytical geometry, and trigonometry.

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noun

1. the course of study leading to calculus.

Etymology

Origin of precalculus

First recorded in 1960–65; pre- + calculus

Example Sentences

He attended Gaspar De Portola Middle School’s highly gifted magnet and is the only Chaminade freshman taking precalculus math.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 9, 2022

AP chemistry, precalculus AB—most of my peers would barely give these a second glance.

From Scientific American • Jul. 28, 2021

It will be helpful to recognize and identify these basic or “toolkit functions” in our work in algebra, precalculus and calculus.

From Textbooks • Sep. 23, 2020

In a precalculus class her son is taking this summer, students in the honors section get extra material and work that they are tested on, she said.

From Washington Post • Aug. 3, 2019

I say nothing in precalculus, when he miraculously inserts himself into his desk.

From "Will Grayson, Will Grayson" by John Green and David Levithan