What does polynomial mean?
A polynomial is a mathematical expression or function made from a finite sum of terms, each combining a coefficient with a power of one or more variables. For example, a single-variable polynomial may contain constant, linear, quadratic, or higher-degree terms. The word can function as both a noun and an adjective: a polynomial may be factored, differentiated, or plotted, while polynomial growth describes a quantity that increases according to powers of another value. Polynomials are important in algebra, approximation theory, numerical analysis, and computer science, where algorithms are classified by whether their running time grows polynomially or exponentially. Although the word’s distant origin refers to having “many names” or terms, a polynomial may technically contain only one nonzero term. Related terms classify expressions chiefly by their number of terms: a monomial has one, a binomial has two, and a multinomial has more than two.
A mathematical expression or function consisting of a finite sum of terms, each formed by multiplying a coefficient by a power of one or more variables.
"The polynomial represents the measured relationship between temperature and time."
The noun is countable and is used especially in algebra, analysis, and computer science.
Denoting or relating to a mathematical expression or function composed of a finite sum of terms involving powers of one or more variables.
"Polynomial growth is preferable to exponential growth for this particular task."
This use is characteristic of formal mathematical and computer-science writing.
The standard plural of the noun is polynomials; the adjective has no distinct plural form.
"The two polynomials have different degrees."
Polynomial literally points back to “many names,” while modern algebra uses “terms”; monomial, binomial, and multinomial form its family, distinguished largely by term count.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of polynomial
The word entered English in the late seventeenth century in a Latinized form from Greek polynomios, meaning “consisting of many names or terms.” Its Greek formation combines polu-, meaning “many,” with a form of nomos meaning “name” or “term.” In mathematical usage, “term” became the operative meaning, and the word was extended to describe expressions, functions, and related concepts.
Related word forms
How polynomial is actually used
Primarily formal mathematical and computer-science terminology. It is normally used by people with technical training and is uncommon in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with polynomial
A monomial contains exactly one nonzero term, whereas a polynomial may contain one or more terms and is often contrasted with a monomial when discussing degree.