Mathematical
/ˌmæθəˈmætɪkəl/noun
Relating to mathematics or numbers, quantities, and logical structure.
Did you know?The word ultimately traces back to Greek *máthēma*, meaning “that which is learned,” so “mathematical” began as a word about knowledge itself, not just calculation.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*men-
“to think, mind”
Ancient Greek
Greek
máthema
“that which is learned; knowledge; study”
Ancient Greek
Greek
mathēmatikós
“fond of learning; mathematical”
Late Latin
Latin
mathematicus
“pertaining to mathematics; astrologer”
Old French
Old French
mathematique
“mathematical; relating to the sciences of number and celestial calculation”
Middle English
English
mathematical
“pertaining to mathematics”
Explore more surprising origins