matrix
noun /ˈmeɪtrɪks/
/ˈmeɪtrɪks/
(plural matrices
/ˈmeɪtrɪsiːz/
/ˈmeɪtrɪsiːz/
)- (mathematics) an arrangement of numbers, symbols, etc. in rows and columns, treated as a single quantityTopics Maths and measurementc2
- (formal) the formal social, political, etc. situation from which a society or person grows and develops
- the European cultural matrix
- (formal or literary) a system of lines, roads, etc. that cross each other, forming a series of squares or shapes in between synonym network
- a matrix of paths
- (specialist) a mould in which something is shaped
- (computing) a group of electronic circuit elements arranged in rows and columns like a grid see also dot matrix printer
- (geology) a mass of rock in which minerals, precious stones, etc. are found in the ground
Word Originlate Middle English (in the sense ‘womb’): from Latin, ‘breeding female’, later ‘womb’, from mater, matr- ‘mother’.