Chaos Theory
/ˈkeɪ.ɒs ˌθɪə.ri/noun
A mathematical and scientific study of how deterministic systems can produce highly unpredictable behavior.
Did you know?The word chaos comes from Ancient Greek kháos, originally describing a vast, yawning chasm or primordial void—not mere confusion.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*ǵʰeh₂-
“To gape, yawn, or stand open—an uncertain but widely proposed root behind words for openings and voids.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
khaos
“A yawning gulf, abyss, or primordial void.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
theōria
“Contemplation, observation, or a viewing.”
17th Century
English
chaos
“A state of confusion or disorder; also the primordial void in theological and literary usage.”
19th Century
English
theory
“A systematic explanation based on principles and evidence.”
20th Century
English
chaos theory
“The scientific study of deterministic systems whose outcomes are extremely sensitive to initial conditions.”