symmetric group

noun

, Mathematics.

1. the group of all permutations of a finite set.

Word History and Origins

Origin of symmetric group¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

Those permutations which leave the product unaltered constitute a group of order n!/2, which is called the alternating group of degree n; it is a self-conjugate subgroup of the symmetric group.

From Project Gutenberg

In general, if the equation is given arbitrarily, the group will be the symmetric group.

From Project Gutenberg

These processes consist in forming resolvents of the equation corresponding to each distinct type of subgroup of the symmetric group whose degree is that of the equation.

From Project Gutenberg

Thus, for an equation of the fifth degree the various transitive subgroups of the symmetric group of degree five have to be considered.

From Project Gutenberg

It is known as the symmetric group of degree n, the only rational functions of the symbols which are unaltered by all possible permutations being the symmetric functions.

From Project Gutenberg