What does monomial mean?
A monomial is a single-term polynomial, typically in the form of a variable raised to a non-negative integer power. This term is commonly used in algebra and mathematics to describe a single term that can be added or subtracted from other terms. Monomials are often used in equations and expressions to simplify complex calculations. In contrast to binomial or polynomial expressions, monomials are single-term expressions that can be easily factored or combined with other terms. The term monomial is derived from the Greek words 'monos' and 'nomos', meaning 'single' and 'law' respectively. This term is widely used in mathematics and is an essential concept in algebra and calculus.
nounA monomial is a single-term polynomial, typically in the form of a variable raised to a non-negative integer power, such as x^2 or 3y.
- A single-term polynomial, typically in the form of a variable raised to a non-negative integer power.
"The equation is a quadratic monomial, which can be factored into two binomial factors."
"The equation is a quadratic monomial, which can be factored into two binomial factors."
"In algebra, a monomial is a single term that can be added or subtracted from other terms."
The plural form of monomial is used to describe multiple single-term polynomials.
"The equation has multiple monomials that can be factored separately."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of monomial
The term monomial is derived from the Greek words 'monos' and 'nomos', meaning 'single' and 'law' respectively. This term was first used in mathematics to describe a single-term polynomial, and has since been widely adopted in algebra and calculus.
How monomial is actually used
In mathematics, the term monomial is used to describe a single-term polynomial. It is often used in contrast to binomial or polynomial expressions.