What does multiplication mean?
Multiplication names the arithmetic operation of combining a number with itself a specified number of times. In its standard mathematical sense, it is one of the four principal operations, alongside addition, subtraction, and division. The operation is closely associated with repeated equal addition, although multiplication can be understood as efficient shorthand for that process. The word also has broader uses: a multiplication of cells refers to cell division and growth, while the multiplication of a business, movement, or other organization may mean a rapid increase in its size or reach. In everyday discussion, multiplication can carry either a positive connotation, suggesting growth and opportunity, or a negative one, suggesting proliferation, excess, or problems multiplying. Its vocabulary relatives include multiply, multiple, multiplier, and multiplicity, all derived from the Latin root multiplicare, meaning to make many or increase.
The mathematical operation or process of multiplying numbers or quantities.
"Multiplication by zero always produces zero."
This is the dominant modern use of the word.
An increase in the number, amount, or extent of something.
"The multiplication of small workshops created a nationwide network."
This extended sense is common in economic, scientific, and social contexts.
To increase greatly in number or amount; to multiply.
"The copied documents multiplied overnight."
This verb use is now relatively uncommon and sounds formal or archaic in many contexts.
The plural is grammatical but uncommon; the singular is normally preferred even when referring to several instances of multiplication.
"The exercises cover fractions, powers, and other basic multiplications."
Multiplication comes from the same Latin root as multiply and multiple: its original idea was making something many.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does multiplication come from?
Multiplication comes through Old French from Latin multiplicātiō, a noun formed from multiplicāre, “to make many” or “increase.” The Latin verb is related to multus, meaning “much” or “many.” The English family includes multiply, multiple, multiplier, and multiplicity.
Related word forms
How multiplication is actually used
In ordinary use, multiplication most often refers to arithmetic. In contexts involving population, cells, businesses, or other systems, it can describe a substantial increase or rapid replication.
Easily confused with multiplication
Multiplication is the arithmetic operation or process of increasing a number through repeated multiplication, whereas reproduction is the biological or mechanical process of producing copies.