What does monomial mean?
A monomial is, in algebra, an expression made up of exactly one term. Examples include constants such as 7, variables such as x, and products such as 3x²y, in which numerical coefficients and variables are raised to nonnegative integer powers. Unlike a polynomial with several terms, a monomial contains no addition or subtraction joining distinct terms, so it can often be handled more directly using exponent rules and the laws of multiplication. The word also has a broader, less common meaning of a single name or item considered independently. In ordinary educational writing, “monomial expression” and “monomial term” are common established pairings. The term is useful because it identifies a structurally simple kind of algebraic expression and distinguishes it from binomial, trinomial, and more general polynomial expressions. Its neutral mathematical tone contrasts with related vocabulary such as “monopoly,” which is unrelated to the mathematical sense.
An algebraic expression consisting of a single term, such as a constant, a variable, or a product of variables and powers with a numerical coefficient.
"The teacher simplified the monomial 6x² into its coefficient and exponent."
In algebra, a monomial has one term and uses only multiplication between its factors.
A single name, term, or item considered on its own.
"The discussion focused on that monomial rather than on the wider phrase."
Consisting of or constituting a single term.
"The instructor used a monomial expression to demonstrate the distributive law."
This adjective is chiefly used in mathematical contexts.
The plural is used when referring to several single-term algebraic expressions or, in the broader sense, several individual names or items.
"The lesson compares monomials such as x², 7, and 3ab."
A monomial is a mathematical neat-freak's favorite expression: one term, with no addition to complicate the picture.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does monomial come from?
The word was formed in the 19th century within mathematical terminology. It combines Greek monos, meaning “single,” with the suffix -nomial, a formation associated with Latin nomen, meaning “name.” The same naming pattern produced related mathematical terms such as binomial and trinomial, while the broader use of monos also appears in words like monogram.
Related word forms
How monomial is actually used
In mathematics, the word is most often used for an algebraic expression containing exactly one term. The broader sense involving a single name or item is uncommon and is mainly found in formal or specialized writing.