radix

[ rey-diks ]

noun

, plural rad·i·ces [rad, -, uh, -seez, rey, -d, uh, -], ra·dix·es.

1. Mathematics. a number taken as the base of a system of numbers, logarithms, or the like.
2. Anatomy, Botany. a root; radicle.

radix

/ ˈreɪdɪks /

noun

1. maths any number that is the base of a number system or of a system of logarithms

   10 is the radix of the decimal system

2. biology the root or point of origin of a part or organ
3. linguistics a less common word for root 1

radix

/ rā′dĭks /

, Plural radices răd′ĭ-sēz′,rā′dĭ-

1. Biology.
   The primary or beginning portion of a part or organ, as of a nerve at its origin from the brainstem or spinal cord.
2. Mathematics.
   The base of a system of numbers, such as 2 in the binary system and 10 in the decimal system.

Word History and Origins

Origin of radix¹

1565–75; < Latin rādīx root ( race ³, radical, ramus ); akin to Greek rhíza root, rhā́dīx branch, frond; root ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of radix¹

C16: from Latin rādīx root; compare Greek rhadix small branch, rhiza root

Example Sentences

Two products - a galangal powder common in Asian cuisine and a radix aconiti kusnezoffii powder traditionally used in Chinese medicine - have been pulled off retail shelves.

From BBC

A variation of Raddix — radix — is a mathematical term for the basis of a system of numeration.

From Los Angeles Times

Radishes take their name from the Latin word radix, meaning "root."

From Los Angeles Times

What’s in season: The edible roots of the mustard family, radishes get their name from the Latin radix, which means “root.”

From Los Angeles Times

A radix sort can help match socks faster than simply grabbing random ones out of the pile.

From BBC

Related Words

• essence
• foundation
• heart
• origin
• seed
• soul
• source
• stem
• stuff