The Words of Mathematics: An Etymological Dictionary of Mathematical Terms Used in English (Spectrum) - Softcover

Schwartzman, Steven

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0883855119 ISBN 13: 9780883855119

Publisher: The Mathematical Association of America, 1996

Synopsis

The Words of Mathematics explains the origins of over 1500 mathematical terms used in English. While other dictionaries of mathematics define technical terms, this book concentrates on where those terms came from and what their literal meanings are. The words included here range from simple to advanced. This dictionary is easy to use. Although some of the entries are highly technical, the book explains them in plain English. The introduction gives an overview of how the ancient language known as Indo-European developed into Latin, Greek, French and English, the languages from which most of our mathematical vocabulary has been derived. Another section discusses the many ways in which mathematicians have borrowed and created their specialized vocabulary over the centuries. A glossary explains historical and linguistic terms used throughout the book.

About this title

Book Description

The Words of Mathematics explains the origins of over 1500 mathematical terms used in English. While other dictionaries of mathematics define technical terms, this book concentrates on where those terms came from and what their literal meanings are. The words included here range from simple to advanced.

About the Author

Steven Schwartzman earned his M.A. in the teaching of mathematics from Duke University. He spent nine years as a high school mathematics teacher. He later taught mathematics at Austin Community College and French at the University of Texas.

Edition details

• Publisher: The Mathematical Association of America
• Publication date: 1996
• ISBN 10: 0883855119
• ISBN 13: 9780883855119
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 270