Asimplemathdictionary

A Simple Math Dictionary
The language of math can be overwhelming, especially if you are a math phobic. This math dictionary uses simple and clear definitions as well as illustrations to help students easily understand new math words.
The original purchaser of this document is granted permission to copy for teaching purposes only. If you are NOT the original purchaser, please download the item from my store before making any copies. Redistributing, editing, selling, or posting this item or any part thereof on the Internet are strictly prohibited without first gaining permission from the author. Violations are subject to the penalties of the Digital millennium Copyright Act. Please contact me if you wish to be granted special permission.
V. Rauch (scipi on Teachers Pay Teachers), 2010
Dictionary - 1
A Simple Math Dictionary

Word
Picture or Example
(5, 7)
5 is the abscissa. It means this point is 5 spaces to the right on the x axis.
Definition
The horizontal (x) value in a pair of coordinates. How far along the point is. Always written first in an ordered pair of coordinates.
Abscissa
See definition for coordinate graph. How far a number is from zero on a number line. The symbol for absolute value is . For example, on a number line, "7" is 7 away from zero, and "-7" is also 7 away from zero; so, the absolute value of 7 is 7, and the absolute value of -7 is also 7. An angle that measures more than 0 but less than 90. A triangle that has three acute angles (angles less than 90).
Absolute Value
=7
7 = 7
This is read: the absolute value of 7 is 7. How would you read 7 ?
Acute Angle
Acute Triangle
Addend
8 + 6 = 14 addends
One of the numbers being added in an addition problem. 8 and 6 are the addends in this math problem.
The number you add to another number to get zero. The inverse operation for addition is subtraction, and the inverse operation for subtraction is addition.
Additive Inverse
The additive inverse of 4 is 4, because -4 + 4 = 0. The additive inverse of 4 is -4.
Adjacent Angles
a b
Angles that are next to each other.

The angles a and b are adjacent angles because they have a common side and a common end point (vertex). A logical, step-by-step procedure for solving a problem.
Algorithm Angle
vertex
Part of a circle; two rays that have a common end point called the vertex. Angles are measured in degrees.
Dictionary - 2
Area
The area of this rectangle is 24 square units.
The number of square units needed to cover a two dimensional object. Area is the inside of an object. In Algebra, the order of the terms of a polynomial when they are ordered from left to right and from the least to the greatest based on the exponent of the unknown.
The Associative Property means the answer to an addition or multiplication problem will stay the same because it doesnt matter how you group the numbers. In the example, the problem is 6 + 3 + 7. You can add the 6 and 3 first or the 3 and 7 first, and still get the same sum of 16.
Ascending Order
x + 2x2 + 4x3
This polynomial is in ascending order.
Associative Property for Addition Associative Property for Multiplication Attributes
(6 + 3) + 7 = 16 6 + (3 + 7) = 16 (3 4) 2 = 24 3 (4 2) = 24
Properties such as shape, color, and size which are used to describe objects. Find the average or mean of these numbers. 23, 21, 43, 45
The middle value of a set of data. To find the average or mean, add up all the numbers and divide by how many numbers there are. In this set of numbers 7, 9, 11, the average or mean is 9 because 7 + 9 + 11 = 27. You then divide by 3 because there are three numbers in the set. 27 3 = 9
Average - also called the Mean
Balanced Equation
14 = 8 + 6 7+2=2+7 3+1=2+2
A balanced equation means both sides of the equation are equal to each other.
Bar Graph
A bar graph using horizontal or vertical bars to show and compare data.
Base Base Base Number
The face on which a 3-dimensional object (polyhedron) sits. The number that is multiplied by itself when an exponent is present. In the example below, 3 is the base number and 4 is the exponent. The problem would be worked like this: 34 = 3 3 3 3 = 81
34
base number
Dictionary - 3
Base Ten System
The numbers used in the Base Ten System are: (0,1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9) A bicycle has two wheels.
The decimal number system that we use every day. Since it consists of 10 digits, it is called Base Ten.
Bi-
A prefix meaning 2.
Billion Binomial
1,000,000,000 2x + 7 and 3x - 4 are binomials.
A thousand millions or 109.

In Algebra, a polynomial with two unlike terms. It is the sum or difference of two monomials.
Bisect
To divide something into two equal parts.
Capacity
A measurement of the amount that a container can hold.

Celsius, sometimes called "Centigrade", is a way to measure temperature. On the Celsius scale, 0C is the freezing point, and 100C is the boiling point.
Celsius
Centimeter
2.54 cm = 1 inch. 100 cm. = 1 meter 10 mm = 1 cm.
A centimeter is a metric measure of length. The abbreviation for centimeter is cm.
Chord
A line segment that joins two points on a circle or any closed curve.
A perfectly round 2-dimensional shape that has all of its points the same distance from the center. Every circle contains 360.
Circle
Circle Graph Also known as: Pie Chart Pie Graph
A circular graph that shows all the parts of the whole in which each slice (sector) is a category. All the sectors must add up to 100%. A circle graph is also called a pie chart or pie graph.
The perimeter of a circle; the line that forms the outside edge of a circle or any closed curve.
Circumference Clockwise
Turning in the same direction as a clock turns; to the right.

Dictionary - 4
Coefficient
3y
3y means 3 times y. The letter y is the unknown, and 3 is the coefficient.
A number used to multiply a variable or unknown. The coefficient (number) is written directly beside the variable or unknown. A vertical list.
Column Common Denominator

3 8 1 8
This is when two or more fractions have the same denominator (the number on the bottom) in common. If the denominators are not the same or not "common", you cannot add or subtract the fractions. The Commutative Property of Addition means you can add numbers in any order because the answer (sum) stays the same.
The Commutative Property of Multiplication means you can multiply numbers in any order because the answer (product) stays the same.
These two fractions can be added because they have a common denominator of 8.
Community Property of Addition Community Property of Multiplication Compass
4 + 6 = 10 6 + 4 = 10 24=8 42=8
A math tool with two arms, one sharp and one that holds a pencil. It is used to construct circles or arcs.
A 50 angle + a 40 angle = 90 so they are complementary angles. 8 is a composite number because it has 4 factors: 1, 2, 4 and 8. Any two angles whose sum is 90. They do not have to be next to each other to be complementary.
Complementary Angles Composite Number Cone
A number that has more than two factors.
A polyhedron (3-dimensional) object that has a circular base and one vertex point.
Geometric shapes that are exactly the same shape and size. We use the special sign to show congruency.
Congruent
Consecutive Numbers Coordinates
1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 are consecutive numbers.

(1, 3) The 1 is the x coordinate, and the 3 is the y coordinate.
Numbers that are in order, without any gaps.
An ordered pair of numbers that gives the location of a point on a coordinate grid. See definition for coordinate graph.
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Coordinate Graph
Also known as Coordinate Grid or Cartesian Graph
A grid made up of two perpendicular number lines that intersect at zero (the origin). These intersecting lines are called the "x" axis (the horizontal line) and "y" axis (the vertical line). Moving in the opposite direction to the hands on a clock; to the left. To multiply across the = sign when there is one fraction on each side of the equation. The purpose of CRM is to clear the fractions and rewrite the equation.
A cube is a 3-dimensional object (a polyhedron) that has six identical square faces. A cylinder is a 3-dimensional object with: * two identical flat circular ends * and one curved side. When opened up and laid flat as a net, it consists of a rectangle and two circles.
Counter Clockwise Cross Multiply
y 4
6 8
8 y and 4 6 8y = 24
Cube
Cylinder
DecaDecagon Decimal
A decade is ten years.
A prefix that means 10. A ten sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon).

A fractional number written with a decimal point such as.04. The decimal .04 is less than one whole. Any numbers written to the right of a decimal point are less than one.
A fraction is a decimal is a percent is a ratio! Decimal Point 1.9

This decimal is read as 1 and 9 tenths. The decimal point is read as and. A point or dot used to separate the whole number part from the fractional part of a number. A point that separates dollars and cents, for example $5.26. This is read as 5 dollars and 26 cents. A unit for measuring an angle. The symbol for degrees is . A measure of temperature. The symbol for degrees is . The two most common temperature scales are Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Degree - Angles Degree Temperature
Dictionary - 6
Denominator
3 4
The bottom number in a fraction which tells the number of equal pieces making up a whole.
denominator
In the example, 4 is the denominator and shows that something has been divided into 4 equal parts.
Descending Order
x3 + 2x2 + 4x
This polynomial is in descending order.
In Algebra, the order of the terms of a polynomial when they are ordered from left to right and from the greatest to the least based on the exponent of the unknown. A chord (straight line) that passes through the center of a circle or other round object and touches two points on the circumference. The answer to a subtraction problem. How much one number differs from another. The difference between 8 and 6 is 2.
Any one of the ten symbols used in making numbers. The digits in our number system are: 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9.
Diameter
diameter
Difference
86=2
difference
Digit
Digital Root
135 = 1 + 3 + 5 = 9
The digital root of 135 is 9. Since 9 is divisible by 3, 135 is also divisible by 3.
Adding each digit of a number until only one digit remains. Digital Root is often used to determine if a number is divisible by 3.
Discount
Shoe Sale!
A reduction in price. The amount subtracted 10% off of the from the original price of an item. original price Sometimes discounts are written as a percent, of $60. such as a 10% discount.
When a factor is written outside and next to a parenthesis. You multiply each number inside the ( ) by the number next to the parenthesis to clear the parenthesis. The Distributive Property means you get the same product when you multiply a group of numbers by another number as when multiply each problem separately. 6 (2 + 4) is the same as (6 2) + (6 4) 6 6 = 36 12 + 24 = 36
Distributive Property
4 (y + 7) = 4 y and 4 7 = 4 y + 28
Dividend
24 6 = 4 dividend
The number to be divided; the amount that you want to divide up.
dividend divisor = quotient
Dictionary - 7
Division
82=
8 2
Dump Divide By
28
Splitting or dividing into equal parts or groups. It is the result of "fair sharing". Division can be written three ways, as a fraction, using the sign, or using the symbol. When writing a fraction using the remember to dump and divide by. Another way to remember this is the numerator (N) is always Nside the house. symbol,
Divisor
24 6 = 4 divisor
The number that is used to divide another number; the number you divide by.
dividend divisor = quotient
Dodecagon
A twelve sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon).
Double Dozen
Eggs are sold by the dozen.
Twice as much; to add twice or multiply by 2.

Twelve items. Sometimes a bakery will sell a bakers dozen which is 13.
Edge
Edge
The line which connects two faces of a polyhedron (3-dimensional object). The end of a line segment or ray.
3+6=9
End Point Equal
$1.00 = 100 cents
Having exactly the same amount or value as. The symbol = stands for equal.
A math sentence showing that two things are the same. An Algebraic equation that uses letters to represent numbers. An equal sign (=) is used to show that both sides are the same. An equation is two expressions separated by an equal sign.
Equation
x + 9 = 16
Equilateral Triangle
A triangle with three equal sides and three equal angles measuring 60 each.
Dictionary - 8
Equivalent Equivalent Fractions
9 is equivalent to 6 + 3.
Having the same value.

Fractions which have the same value, even though they may look different. The fractions in the example are equivalent because they both mean one-fourth. When you estimate, you try to find a number close to the actual value. The special sign approximately. means about or
2 8
1 4
Estimate
$3.98 $4.00
If you have $3.98, you have about $4.00.
Evaluate Even Numbers 24, 110, and 622 are

all even numbers because there is an even number in the ones place. exponent
To calculate the value of; to solve.

Any number that can be divided exactly by 2. It has a 0, 2, 4, 6, or 8 in the ones place. Here is a math cheer: 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, who do we appreciate? Even numbers! Even numbers! Even numbers!
Exponent
The exponent of a number shows you how many times the base number is to be multiplied by itself. It is written as a small 3 4 = 4 4 4 = 64 number to the right and above the base base number number.
Writing a number to show the value of each digit.
Expanded Form Expression
426 = 400 + 20 + 6
2 3 is an expression, but 2 3 = 6 is an equation.
Numbers, symbols, and operation signs grouped together that show the relationship between numbers. An expression does not contain an equal sign. The flat surface of a polyhedron (a solid shape).
Face
face
Factor
8 5 = 40 factors
A number that is multiplied by another number. In the example, 8 and 5 are factors of 40.
A way to measure temperature where 32 is the freezing point, and 212 is the boiling point. Something that has an end.
Fahrenheit Finite A line segment
In geometry, a line segment is finite because it has a beginning and an end. It can be measured.
Dictionary - 9
Flip
These arrows To turn something over to make it look like its have been refection in a mirror. A flip is also called a flipped reflection in math. horizontally.
Foot
12 inches = 1 foot
A foot is a standard measure of length. The abbreviation is ft., or sometimes the single quote mark . An equation or rule that shows a relationship between two or more numbers or different variables. The example shows the formula for finding distance. A number showing part of a whole; a part or parts of a set or whole that has been divided equally. A fraction is made up of two parts. The numerator is the top number and tells how many you are talking about. The bottom number is the denominator and tells how many make up the set or whole.
Formula
d=rt
The variables mean: distance = rate time.
Fraction
1 3
One out of three circles in the total set have been filled in.
A fraction is a decimal is a percent is a ratio! Fraction Bar

The line that separates the numerator and the denominator. It means to divide. In our example, the fraction would be read as: 1 by 3.
1 3
fraction bar
Geometry A square is a polygon.
The area of mathematics that deals with lines as well as shapes and their parts. Plane Geometry is about 2-dimensional flat shapes called polygons. Lines, squares, and triangles are examples of polygons. Solid Geometry is about 3-dimensional solid shapes like pyramids and cubes. Solid shapes are called polyhedrons. The number written as 1 followed by 100 zeros or 10100.
A cube is a polyhedron. Googol
Gram
1 gram = .035 ounce
A metric unit of weight/mass which is smaller than an ounce. The abbreviation for gram is g. A diagram or drawing of values. It is a visual display that records information using bars, lines, a circle, or symbols/pictures. A graph should have five labels: a title, increments, a description of the increments, categories, and a description of the categories.
Graph
Dictionary - 10
Greater Than
More than. The symbol > means greater than. To decide whether to use < or >, try this. Draw two dots beside the greater number, and one dot beside the smaller number. Connect the dots, and your sign will always be correct. The Greatest Common Factor (GCF) is the largest number that divides exactly into two or more numbers.
This means 5 is greater than 3. The 5 gets two dots and the 3 gets one dot.
Greatest Common Factor
The GCF of 15, 35, and 40 is 5.
Half
One of two equal parts. When cutting something in half, divide by 2 or multiply by the fraction
1 . 2
Hendecagon
An eleven sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon). It is also called an undecagon. A prefix meaning 7. A seven sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon). See definition for septagon.
HeptaHeptagon
HexaHexagon
A prefix meaning 6. A six sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon).
Horizontal
This is a horizontal line.
Horizontal means sideways or across. Going from side-to-side, like the horizon.
A measure of time that equals 60 minutes. A period of time equal to 1/24 (one twenty-fourth) of a day. One part in a hundred equal parts. In the example, .05 means 5 out of 100 equal parts.
Hour
1 day = 24 hours 1 hour = 60 minutes
Hundredth
.05
The five is in the hundredths place.
Hypotenuse
The longest side of a right triangle. The side opposite the right angle in a right triangle.
Dictionary - 11
Identity Element for Addition and Subtraction Identity Element for Multiplication and Division
5+0=5 y-0=y
Zero is the additive identity in Algebra because adding or subtracting zero to a number or unknown leaves it unchanged. One is the identity element in Algebra for multiplication and division because multiplying or dividing by one leaves a number or unknown unchanged. A fraction where the numerator (the top number) is greater than or equal to the denominator (the bottom number). In other words, it is top-heavy.
y1=y
51=5
5 3 3 3
Improper Fraction
Five thirds and three thirds are both improper fractions.
A fraction greater than or equal to one whole that is not written as a mixed number. An inch is a standard measure of length. 1 It is of a foot. The abbreviation is in., or 12
sometimes the double quote mark ". A mathematical sentence that compares two unequal sets or numbers using the symbols:
Inch
12 in. = 1 foot 36 in. = 1 yard

1 in. = 2.54 centimeters
Inequality
< > Infinite

A ray is infinite because it has no end.
Never ending. Not finite. We use this symbol for infinity.

A number with no fractional part. Integers are whole numbers, their negative partners, and zero.
Integer
{0, 1, 2, 3} {-1, -2, -3}
Intersect Intersection A Inverse Operations
To cross over; to have a common point.

Where lines cross over at a common point. In the example, the intersection of the two lines is point A. The opposite operation; the operation that reverses the effect of another operation. Addition is the inverse of subtraction. Multiplication is the inverse of division.
Irrational Number
Pi () is an irrational number.
A number that can not be written as a simple fraction. The decimal goes on forever without repeating or ending.
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Irregular Polygon
A polygon (a 2-dimensional shape) with no equal sides or angles. A polygon is regular only if all of its angles and sides are equal otherwise it is irregular.
Isosceles Triangle
A triangle with two sides the same length. The two angles opposite those sides are also equal.
Key
= 4 apples
This means that every apple picture on a pictograph represents 4 apples.
Part of a graph or map that explains a symbols meaning and the amount it represents.
The key is the key to understanding the graph.
KiloKilogram
1 kg = 1,000 grams 1 kg 2.205 pounds
(approximately)
A prefix meaning 1,000. A metric measure of weight/mass equal to 1,000 pounds. The abbreviation is kg.
Kilometer
1 km
0.6 miles
(approximately)
A metric measure of length equal to 1,000 meters. The abbreviation is km.
Least Least Common Denominator (LCD)

Also known as the Lowest Common Denominator The LCD of 1 2 and is 6 because the 2 3
fractions can be written as
The smallest.
The smallest number into which all denominators (the bottom number) of two or more fractions will divide exactly. When adding or subtracting fractions, find the least common denominator (LCD) because the denominators must be the same. The smallest number that is a common multiple of a set of two or more numbers.
3 4 and . 6 6
The LCM of 4 and 6 is 12.
Least Common Multiple (LCM) Legs Length
legs
In a right triangle, the two sides which are not the hypotenuse.
The measurement from top to bottom or end to end of a line or figure.
Dictionary - 13
Less Than
Fewer than. The symbol < is used for less than. To decide whether to use < or >, try this. Draw two dots beside the greater number, and one dot beside the smaller number. Connect the dots, and your sign will always be correct.
This is read as four is less than 9. The 4 gets one dot and the 9 gets two dots.
Like Terms
3x and 2x are like terms because the variables or unknowns are both "x".
Terms whose variables (and their exponents such as the 2 in x2) are the same. We can add and subtract the coefficients of like terms.
Line
A straight path that goes on infinitely in either direction.

Line Graph
Line Graph
A graph that uses connecting line segments to show data. Usually, a line graph displays data gathered over time. Think of Time Line to remember when to use a line graph.
Line Segment
Two endpoints and the part of a straight line that connects them.
A line that divides a shape into two halves that are a mirror image of each other. A line of symmetry can be horizontal, vertical or diagonal. This butterfly has a vertical line of symmetry. If the picture is folded in half along the dotted line, each section of the butterfly will be exactly the same.
Line of Symmetry
Linear Linear Equation Linear
Having to do with lines.

An equation that makes a straight line when it is graphed. Notice that the word line is in the word linear. A metric measure of volume/capacity used mostly to measure liquids. The abbreviation is L.
Liter
1 L = 1,000 ml ml = milliliters
Lowest Terms
2 6
1 3
Not able to be reduced. To reduce a fraction to lowest terms means the numerator and denominator cannot be reduced any further.
Two sixths has been reduced to lowest terms.
Dictionary - 14
Mass
The metric system uses, grams and kilograms to measure mass. In the standard system, mass is measured in ounces and pounds.
The measurement of the amount of matter in an object. Mass is commonly measured by how much something weighs. Weight changes according to gravity. You can be weightless in space even though you have the same mass on earth. The greatest amount.
Maximum Mean See the definition for average. 2, 4, 5, 7, 8 5 is the median.
The mean is the average of a set of numbers. It is a way to average a group in which all of the data is added and equally divided up.
The middle number in a set of ordered numbers. Half the numbers in the list are less, and half the numbers are greater. To find the median, place the numbers in order of value and find the middle number. A system of measurement based on tens. All countries in the world use metric except for three, the United States, Liberia and Myanmar.
Median
Metric System
Midpoint Mile Milli20 drops 1 ml. (from a standard eye dropper) 1,000 mm = 1 meter 1,000,000
The middle point.

A standard measure of length equal to 5,280 feet.
A prefix meaning one-thousandth
1 1000
Milliliter
A metric unit of volume used to measure small amounts of liquid. The abbreviation for milliliter is ml. It is equal to
1 of a liter. 1000
Millimeter Million Minimum Minute Minuend
A metric unit of length used to measure small lengths. The abbreviation is mm. A large number equal to one thousand thousands or 106.
The least amount. 60 min = 1 hour minuend A measure of time equal to 60 seconds.
12 7 = 5 In a subtraction problem, the minuend is the number you are subtracting from.
3
Mixed Fraction Mixed Number
1 6 is a mixed fraction.
A number with a whole number and a fraction part. It is sometimes called a mixed number.
Dictionary - 15
Mode
3, 2, 7, 5, 7, 2, 7 The mode is 7 because it appears 3 times.
A way to average when there are many identical data points. The mode is the number that occurs most often. To remember, think of mode most.
Monomial
x is a monomial. 4 is a monomial. 3x is a monomial.
In Algebra, a polynomial with just one term. It can be just a number, an unknown or the product of a number and an unknown. Greater than
More Than Multiple Multiplicand Multiplicative Identity

8 is a multiple of 4 and 2.
See the definition for factor.
The product of any two factors (whole numbers).
Another word for factor. Multiplying any number by 1 leaves it unchanged.
See the definition for:

Identity Element for Multiplication and Division.
Multiplier Multiplication
4 3 is the same as 4 + 4 + 4.
Another name for factor.

Multiplication is repeated addition. It is adding the same number over and over.
Natural Numbers
The whole numbers from 1 upwards: 1, 2, 3, etc. In some fields of mathematics, natural numbers are from 0 upwards: 0, 1, 2, 3, etc. Natural numbers contain no negative numbers and no fractions.
Negative Numbers Net
- 6 is a negative number.
Numbers less than zero. A negative number is written with a negative sign in front of it. A 2-dimensional figure that can be folded to make a 3-dimensional model of a polyhedron. In the example, the net shown will make a cube which has six square faces.
Nonagon None Nonstandard Units

A 9-sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon).
Not even one! Nothing means no-thing. To measure something with paperclips, links, or other items.
Dictionary - 16
Not Equal Number Line
3+55+1
A special symbol is used to show that one number or expression is not equal to another.
A picture or diagram that shows numbers as points on a line.

A number sentence can be an equation like 6 + 4 = 10 or an inequality like 7 2 > 3. 25 is made up of two digits: 2 and 5.
Number Sentence Numeral
Digits used to make up numbers. A symbol or name that stands for a number.
The top number in a fraction that tells how many parts are selected or chosen. In the example, 3 is the numerator and means that 3 things have been chosen from 4 equal parts.
Numerator
numerator This means 3 out of 4.
3 4
O Oblong
Obtuse Angle
A shape that is greater in length than in width such as a rectangle.

An angle that measures greater than 90 but less than 180. Its measurement is between a right angle and a straight angle. An eight-sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon). A stop sign is an octagon. You can remember this because there is an O in STOP.
Octagon
Odd
25, 117, and 623 are

all odd numbers because there is an odd number in the ones place.
A number that is not a multiple of 2. It has a 1, 3, 5, 7, or 9 in the ones place. Any integer that cannot be divided evenly by 2. When you divide an odd number by 2, there is always one left over. When you are solving a problem with more than one step, you will need to follow the order of operations. The correct order is to do the work in the parentheses first. Next do the exponents. Then do the multiplication or division, left to right. Finally do the addition or subtraction left to right. An easy way to remember the order is to learn the phrase: Please excuse my dear Aunt Sally. Two numbers that name a specific point on a coordinate graph, where the "x" (horizontal) value is first, and the "y" (vertical) value is second.
Order of Operations
P = Parenthesis E = Exponent M = Multiplication D = Diviison A = Additon S = Subtraction ( ) x2 + -
Ordered Pair
They are usually written in parentheses like this: (12,5). See illustration.
V. Rauch (scipi on Teachers Pay Teachers), 2010 Dictionary - 17
Ordinal (5, 7)
7 is the ordinate. It means this point is up 7 spaces on the y axis.
A number that shows position or order. First, second, third, etc. are ordinals. The vertical (y) value in a pair of coordinates. How far up or down a point is located. It is always written second in an ordered pair of coordinates.
Ordinate
See definition for coordinate graph.

The starting point of a number line which is zero.
Origin
origin
The intersection of the horizontal (x) and vertical (y) axes on a coordinate graph. It is labeled as (0,0) Ounce
1 cup = 8 oz. 1 pound = 16 oz.
A standard measure of weight/mass. The abbreviation for ounce is oz. A curved shape that resembles an egg or an ellipse.
Oval
Parallel Parallelogram
These are Never crossing or touching; always the same parallel lines. distance apart. The a angles are equal. The b angles are equal.
A quadrilateral whose opposite sides are parallel. The opposite sides and the opposite angles are also equal.
Squares, rectangles, and rhombi are all parallelograms! A series of symbols, figures, or numbers that repeats. The example is an A, B, B or 1, 2, 2 pattern. A five sided 2-dimensional object. The Pentagon building in Washington looks like the picture seen here.
Pattern
Pentagon
Percent
The word percent means per 100 or out of 100; the ratio of a given number to 100. Percent can be written using the symbol %. This is a picture of 42. A number made by squaring a whole number. The number would be written with an exponent of 2 such as 42 or 32. If you use the small squares to form a large square, its sides are as long as the base number. That's why it is called a perfect square. 4 4 = 16
Perfect Square
See the definitions for base number and exponent.
Dictionary - 18
Perimeter
The distance around the outside edge of any polygon. The distance around the outside edge of a circle is called the circumference.
Perpendicular
Two lines that form a right angle where they intersect or cross. The symbol for perpendicular is . A pictorial graph uses pictures to represent numerical facts. Each symbol or picture represents a unit. Pictorial graph are used if the numbers are small or approximate figures are used, and you want to make simple comparisons. Pictorial graphs are: 1) difficult to make, 2) hard to read, and 3) are inaccurate.
Pictorial Graph Also known as: Picture Graph Pictograph
Pi
is approximately
3.1415926535897 In the number 739,
7 is in the hundreds place, 3 is in the tens place, and 9 is in the ones place.
The comparison of the diameter of a circle to its circumference. The symbol is used for pi. Circumference diameter =
Place Value
Place value tells you how much each digit stand for in a number.
Plane See the definition for Two Dimensional.
A flat surface with no thickness that goes on forever. A plane figure has a flat surface and not thickness. Circles, squares, and triangles are examples of plane figures. An exact place marked by a dot that has no size, only position. In geometry, a point is labeled with a capital letter. On a coordinate graph, a point is labeled using two numbers such as (3,4). A circle is not a polygon because it does not have any sides. Prisms are polyhedrons. A closed 2-dimensional shape with sides. Poly means many; so, a polygon is a many sided shape. A 3-dimensional solid with flat faces. Poly means many; so, a polyhedron has many faces. A monomial or the sum or difference of two or monomials. Poly means many; so, a polynomial has many terms; however, it cannot have an infinite number of terms.
Dictionary - 19
Plane Figure
Point
Polygon
Polyhedron
Polynomial
2x4 - x2 + 5x + 6 is a polynomial.
Prime Number
The number 1 is not a prime number since it only has 1 factor itself. The number 1 is called a unit.
A whole number greater than one with only two factors: 1 and itself. The number 2 is the only even prime number. All other prime numbers are odd. A 3-dimensional shape (polyhedron) with two congruent (equal) bases.
Prism
This is a rectangular prism.
Positive Number Power See the definition for exponent.

If you toss a coin, the probability of it landing tails up is half of the time or 50% or 1:2. We could say, It is likely the coin will land tails up.
A number greater than zero.

The power of a number shows you how many times to use the number in multiplication. It is written as an exponent. The part of mathematics that looks at the chance of something happening; the ratio of the number of successful outcomes to the number of possible outcomes. Sometimes probability is written with a number or a percent sign: "60% chance of snow". Occasionally words such as impossible, unlikely, possible, even chance, likely, or certain are used.
Probability
Product Proportion Proper Fraction
3 6 = 18 product 4:8 = 1:2

3 8 is a proper fraction.
The answer to a multiplication problem. A number sentence showing two equal ratios.
A fraction where the numerator (the top number) is less than the denominator (the bottom number).
Protractor
A semi-circular math tool for measuring and drawing angles. It is marked in degrees ranging from 0 to 180. A 3-dimensional figure with a polygon base. The other four faces are triangles with meet a common vertex called an apex. In a right angled triangle, the square of the long side called the hypotenuse is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides. It is stated in this formula: c2 = a2 + b2 hypotenuse (c2)
Pyramid
Pythagorean Right-Triangle Theorem
Dictionary - 20
Quadrant
Any of the four equal areas on a coordinate graph. They are labeled counter clockwise with the Roman numerals: I, II, III, IV. See the definition for coordinate graph.
Quadrilateral Quantity Quart 1 qt. = 2 pints
Any four sided 2-dimensional shape (polygon).
How much there is of something. A standard unit of measurement that is equal to 4 cups. The abbreviation for quart is qt. One-fourth of something. A coin worth $.25.
Quarter
One-fourth =
1 4
Quotient
15 3 = 5
quotient The answer to a division problem.
Radical Sign
16
The sign used to indicate a square root, cube root, etc. The symbol is
Radicand Radius
16
The number under the radical sign. A line segment from the center of a circle to the edge. A radius is one-half of a diameter.
Range
In the set of numbers 24, 56, 68, 83, the range is 49 because 83 24 = 49. Distance = rate time A ratio can be written in three ways:
The difference between the greatest and lest number in a set of data. To determine the range, subtract the least value from the greatest value. A measured quantity such as speed as seen in the formula for finding distance; the cost per unit such as a tax rate.
Rate
Ratio
1:3 or 1 to 3 or
1 3
Comparing two numbers using division. It shows the relative size of two or more values. A fraction is a decimal is a percent is a ratio!
Any fraction that can be written as a repeating or terminating decimal (decimal that ends). Rational numbers include positive numbers, negative numbers, and zero. Part of a line that has one end point and extends indefinitely in one direction.
Dictionary - 21
Rational Number
1 3
.333 3
This is a rational number.
Ray
Reciprocal
Reciprocals are used in the division of fractions.
When the product of two numbers equals 1. 3 and
1 1 3 are reciprocals since = 1 3 3 1
Every number has a reciprocal but 0.
Rectangle
A quadrilateral with four right angles and opposite sides equal and parallel. It is classified as a quadrilateral and a parallelogram.
Rectangular Prism Reduce

2 6 1 3
A polyhedron which has six faces that are rectangles.
To make smaller. See the definition for lowest terms.

Creating a mirror image of a shape by flipping it over. See the definition for flip.
This is a reflex angle.
Reflection
Reflex Angle
An angle which measures more than 180 but less than 360
Regular Polygon
This is a regular pentagon.

A cube is a regular polyhedron because all of its faces are squares.
When all the angles and sides of a polygon are equal. If the angles and sides are not equal, it an irregular polygon. A polyhedron whose faces are exactly the same size.
Regular Polyhedron
Remainder
4 3 13
What is the remainder in this sample problem?
When you are dividing a number equally and you have some left over. The remainder must be smaller than the divisor.
Reoccurring
1 3 .33333
Happening repeatedly; happening over and over again. The decimal that results when a division problem does not come out even. A line is drawn over the repeating number to show it continues indefinitely. A 4-sided polygon where all the sides are equal. The opposite sides are parallel, and the opposite angles are equal. It is classified as a quadrilateral and as a parallelogram.
Repeating Decimal
Rhombus
Dictionary - 22
Right Angle
90
An angle that measures exactly 90. 1 A right angle is of a circle. 4 A triangle that contains one right angle.
Roman letters used to write numbers. Roman numerals are usually written as capital letters. The letters used are: I, V, X, L, C, D, and M. Roman numerals are still used today like in the Olympic Games or the Super Bowl. Sometimes they will be on clocks and in books.
Right Triangle
Roman Numerals
Rotation
To turn a shape around on a vertex or central point. Sometimes a rotation is called a turn. The rotation can either be clockwise or counter clockwise.
Rounding
To round up, increase by 1 if the next digit is 5 or more. Leave the number the same if the digit is less than 5.
A way to estimate; determining an approximate value of a number to a given place value. You might round the number 158 to the nearest ten, which would be 160, but if you rounded 158 to the nearest hundred, it would be 200. The result is not accurate, but it is easier to use.
Row Ruler
A horizontal list.
A measuring tool used to determine length or to draw straight lines. Rulers are often marked in centimeters along the top and inches along the bottom.
Scale Drawing
Scale is 1 cm. : 5 cm.
A plan, map, drawing, or model that uses proportions to represent actual measurements. In the cat drawing, every 1 cm. = 5 cm. when the cat is enlarged. A measuring tool used to determine weight/mass. This is a picture of a balance scale.
Scales
Scalene
A triangle with three sides, each a different length. No sides or angles are equal.
Dictionary - 23
power of ten
Scientific Notation 260,000 = 2.6 105

number from 1-10
A method of representing large numbers with powers of ten. To write a number in scientific notation, express the number as the product of:
a number from 1 to 10 a power of 10 A "pie-slice" section of a circle graph.
Sector
Semicircle
A circle cut in half.
Septagon
A 7-sided polygon. See definition for heptagon.
Set
{2, 5, 7, 11, 13}

is the set of prime numbers less than 17.
Objects or numbers that are in a group.
Skip Counting Side
Counting by a set increment such as 2s. 3s 5s, etc. Counting by one is not skip counting.
A line segment that forms part of a polygon. Having the same shape but not the same size. To reduce a fraction to lowest terms.
This butterfly is the same shape and size. It has just been moved diagonally.
Similar Simplify Slide
Moving a figure or shape without turning or flipping it. The figure or shape does not change; it is just moved to a different location. A slide is also known as a translation.
Slope
slope rise run
The ratio of rise to run of a line; how steep a line is; how much a line slants. In the example, the rise of the line is 3 units.
A 3-dimesional figure that has height, width, and depth. Solid figures are known as polyhedrons. Prisms, cylinders, and cones are examples of solid figures.
Solid Figure
Dictionary - 24
Sort Sphere
A basketball, a globe, and marbles are all examples of spheres.
To put together things that are in some way alike.
A perfectly round 3-dimensional solid. It is perfectly symmetrical. Since a sphere has no edges or vertices, it is not a polyhedron.
Square
A 4-sided polygon that has four congruent sides and four right angles. A square is also a rectangle, a quadrilateral and a parallelogram.
Squared Number
42 = 4 x 4 = 16
To multiply a number by itself. In the example, 42 is read as four squared.

A factor of a number multiplied by itself (perfect square). The symbol is . In a picture formed by using small squares, it is the length of one of the sides of the large square.
Square Root
16
Strategy
A plan for solving a problem. Drawing a picture would be a strategy. An angle that measures exactly 180. It looks like a straight line. Half of a circle = 180. In Algebra, to replace the variables or unknowns with numbers in an expression or If x = 5, then x + 7 would be 5 + 7 after we equation. x+7
substitute 5 for x.
Straight Angle
Substitution
Subtract
When you separate sets or numbers; the operation of finding the difference between two numbers; taking away. 12 3 = 9 subtrahend
Subtrahend Sum Supplementary Angles Surface Area
The number that is to be subtracted from another number. The answer to an addition problem.
3 + 9 = 12 sum
Two angles whose sum is 180. The angles do not have to be next to each other to be supplementary angles. The area of all the faces on a polyhedron.
Dictionary - 25
Symbol
The symbol for addition is +.
Something that stands for something else. When a figure can be folded along a line, so the two halves can match perfectly. See the definition for line of symmetry.
Symmetry
Table
A chart that shows data arranged in an orderly way.
Take Away Tally

These are tally marks. They represent a group of five things.
See the definition for subtraction. Marks used to keep track of an amount. Every time you reach five, you draw a diagonal line to group the tally marks. The amount of heat or cold measured by a thermometer. See definitions for Celsius and Fahrenheit.
Temperature
Tetrahedron
A 3-dimensional solid shape (polyhedron) with four triangular faces.
Three Dimensional Thrice Time
Polyhedrons are 3-dimensional.
An object that has height, width and depth; a solid shape.
To multiply by three; three times as many.

1 year = 365 days 1 year = 52 weeks 1 year = 12 months The way we measure years, days, and minutes.
We use clocks to measure time, and calendars to measure years. When you flip, slide, or rotate an object. See the definitions for flip, slide, and rotate.
Transformation Translation Transversal
See the definition for slide. A line that crosses at least two other lines. A 4-sided polygon (quadrilateral) that has no parallel sides and no equal sides.
Dictionary - 26
Trapezium
Trapezoid
This regular trapezoid is also called an isosceles trapezoid. A tricycle has three wheels.
A 4-sided polygon (quadrilateral) that has only one pair of opposite sides which are parallel.
If the sides that are not parallel are equal in length, it is called a regular trapezoid. A prefix that means 3.
Tri-
Triangle
Any 3-sided polygon.
Triangular Number
Ten bowling pins form a triangle. 1,000,000,000,000
A sequence of numbers that can be shown with dots to make a triangle shape. The numbers 3, 6, 10, and 15 are all triangular numbers. A million million or 1012. See the definition for rotate. A shape that has two dimensions - height and width. It is a flat figure. Polygons are two dimensional.
Trillion Turn Two Dimensional
Undecagon Uneven Unequal Unit Fraction 3+48+2

1 5 1 3 1 7
See definition for hendecagon. Not even; not the same in length.
Not equal. The symbol means unequal to or not equal to.
Any fraction where the numerator is 1.
Unit Unknown
A fixed amount in measurement. Another name for a variable.
Dictionary - 27
Value Variable
How much something is worth.
3y
variable
A letter or symbol that stands for another number. It is sometimes called an unknown.
Venn Diagram
A drawing that uses circles to show relationships between sets of data.
Vertex
vertex
A special kind of point where two or more line segments come together. It is the intersection or corner on geometric shapes. On an angle, it is where the two rays begin or meet. The plural for vertex is vertices.
Vertical Vertical Angles
This is a vertical line.
Vertical means up and down.

Angles that are opposite each other when two lines intersect or cross. Vertical angles are always equal in measurement.
a b Angles a and b are vertical angles.
Volume
The number of cubic units it takes to fill a 3-dimensional shape.
Weight
The measurement of how heavy an object is. Weight uses the units of mass.
Whole Number
{0. 1, 2, 3, 4, etc}
All counting numbers including zero. There are no negative numbers or fractions in the set of counting numbers.
Width Written Form
The measurement of length from side to side.

Writing a number in words. The written form of 15 is fifteen.
Dictionary - 28
x-axis
The horizontal axis on a coordinate grid.
x-intercept
Where a line or curve crosses the x-axis on a coordinate graph.
In the example, the line crosses the x-axis at (3,0).
Yard
A standard unit of measure that is equal to 3 feet. The abbreviation for yard is yd.
y-axis
The vertical axis on a coordinate grid.
y-intercept
Where a line or curve crosses the y-axis on a coordinate graph.
In the example, the line crosses the y-axis at (0,-4).
Dictionary - 29
Zero Zero Exponent 25 = 32 24 = 16 23 = 8 22 = 4 21 = 2 20 = 1

Exponent decreases Divide number by 2.
A number with no value.

Any number, except 0, written with a zero as the exponent. Any number, except 0, with a zero as the exponent is equal to 1. Why? Look at the pattern. Going down the first column, the exponent of each number decreases by one. In the second column, the number is divided by 2. Try the same pattern starting with 35 or 45.
Zillion
A large number equal to a thousand millions.
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Dictionary - 30
Thank you for purchasing one of my resources. If you have time, I would appreciate you rating this item. I also have a math blog where I post math articles, answers to questions, and classroom ideas.
Check it out at: http://gofigurewithscipi.blogspot.com/
Dictionary - 31

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A Simple Math Dictionary

V. Rauch (scipi on Teachers Pay Teachers), 2010