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trigonometry
noun
trig·o·nom·e·try
ˌtri-gə-ˈnä-mə-trē
: the study of the properties of triangles and trigonometric functions and of their applications
Examples of trigonometry in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Although the Pythagorean theorem has been proved with algebra and geometry, mathematicians previously thought that it couldn’t be proved using trigonometry.
—Alexa Robles-Gil, Smithsonian Magazine, 30 Oct. 2024
Related article Turbulent skies of Vincent Van Gogh’s ‘The Starry Night’ align with a scientific theory, study finds
Jackson and Johnson’s study outlines five new ways of proving the theorem using trigonometry, and their method reveals five more proofs for 10 total.
—Katie Hunt, CNN, 29 Oct. 2024
Ex-student Charles is a trigonometry wiz, but all the logic in the world can’t prevent his longing for death.
—Armond White, National Review, 25 Sep. 2024
In writing courses, for example, students learn how to spot fallacies, and elementary proofs are covered in trigonometry.
—Vinay K. Chaudhri, Scientific American, 5 Sep. 2024
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Word History
Etymology
New Latin trigonometria, from Greek trigōnon + -metria -metry
First Known Use
1614, in the meaning defined above
Phrases Containing trigonometry
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Cite this Entry
“Trigonometry.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trigonometry. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
trigonometry
noun
trig·o·nom·e·try
ˌtrig-ə-ˈnäm-ə-trē
: a branch of mathematics concerned with the study of the properties of triangles and trigonometric functions and of their practical uses
Etymology
from scientific Latin trigonometria, literally "triangle measurement," derived from Greek tri- "three" and Greek gonia "angle" and Greek -metria "art or science of measuring"
More from Merriam-Webster on trigonometry
Nglish: Translation of trigonometry for Spanish Speakers
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about trigonometry
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