matrices

Definition

1. Noun (plural form of ):
   • Mathematical context: In mathematics, "matrices" are rectangular arrays of numbers, symbols, or expressions arranged in rows and columns, used to represent linear transformations or systems of equations.
   • Anatomical context: In anatomy, "matrices" refers to the womb or uterus (plural of matrix in this sense).
   • Technical context: In technology and manufacturing, "matrices" are molds or dies used in casting or printing (plural of matrix).
   • Biological context: In biology, "matrices" refers to the extracellular material (intercellular substance) in which cells are embedded.

Usage Examples

• Mathematical:

  • The student solved the system of equations using matrices. (He used arrays of numbers to find the solution.)
  • Matrices are essential in computer graphics for transformations. (Rectangular arrays are used to manipulate images.)

• Anatomical:

  • The surgeon examined the matrices of the patient. (The doctor looked at the uterus.)

• Technical:

  • The printer replaced the worn-out matrices in the press. (The molds used for casting letters were changed.)

• Biological:

  • The bone matrices provide structure and support. (The intercellular material in bones gives them strength.)

Advanced Usage

• "matrices in linear algebra": Matrices are used to represent linear equations and transformations.

  • Multiplying matrices requires careful attention to row and column order. (The mathematical operation of combining two arrays.)

• "change of basis matrices": Special matrices that transform coordinates between different vector spaces.

  • The change of basis matrices allowed the physicist to simplify the calculation. (Matrices that convert one coordinate system to another.)

Variants and Related Words

• Matrix (n, singular): the singular form of "matrices".

  • A single matrix can represent a system of equations. (One rectangular array.)

• Matricial (adj): relating to or resembling a matrix.

  • The matricial structure of the data made it easy to process. (The arrangement in a matrix-like form.)

• Matriculate (v): to enroll in a college or university (etymologically related to "matrix" as a list or register).

  • She will matriculate at the university next fall. (She will officially enroll.)

Synonyms

• Arrays: ordered arrangements of elements (mathematical context).
• Grids: structures with rows and columns (informal synonym for matrices).
• Molds: shapes or forms used for casting (technical context).
• Utteruses: wombs (anatomical context).

Phrasal Verbs

(No common phrasal verbs are associated with "matrices" as a noun.)

Related Idioms

(No common idioms are associated with "matrices".)