What does trigonometric mean?
Trigonometric is an adjective describing mathematics concerned with triangles and the relationships between their angles and sides. It commonly appears before terms such as “functions,” “identities,” “equations,” and “ratios.” Trigonometric functions, including sine, cosine, and tangent, provide ways to express relationships involving angles and lengths, making them essential in geometry, physics, engineering, surveying, navigation, and computer graphics. The word also appears in more specialized expressions, such as trigonometric identities, which are equations that remain true for all applicable angle values, and trigonometric equations, which contain one or more trigonometric functions. Although “trig” is used informally as a shortening, “trigonometric” is the standard formal term in mathematical and scientific writing. Its name reflects its subject: it comes from Greek roots meaning “triangle” and “measure,” reflecting the ancient study of triangle measurement.
adjectiveRelating to triangles or to the mathematical functions and ratios used to calculate relationships involving angles and sides of triangles.
- Relating to triangles or to the mathematical study and calculation of relationships between angles and sides in triangles.
"The solver used trigonometric identities to simplify the equation."
"The architect used trigonometric calculations to determine the dimensions of the sloping roof."
"Trigonometric functions are widely used in physics, engineering, surveying, and navigation."
Trigonometric literally means “triangle measuring,” a fitting label for functions that translate angles and lengths into usable relationships.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of trigonometric
The word was formed in English in the 19th century from the Greek roots trigonon, meaning “triangle,” and metron, meaning “measure.” The related noun trigonometry was also formed through Latin and Greek elements and denotes the mathematical study of triangles and angle-side relationships. Its relatives triangular, triangulate, and triangulation derive from the same Greek-Latin root for “triangle.”
Related word forms
How trigonometric is actually used
Trigonometric is formal mathematical terminology. It is generally used in technical, scientific, educational, and engineering contexts; the shortened form “trig” is more informal and is especially common in education and computing.
Easily confused with trigonometric
Trigonometric is an adjective describing something relating to triangles or trigonometric methods, while trigonometry is the branch of mathematics concerned with calculating angles and sides in triangles.