資料來源 : Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary (1913)
Mathematics \Math`e*mat"ics\, n. [F. math['e]matiques, pl., L.
mathematica, sing., Gr. ? (sc. ?) science. See {Mathematic},
and {-ics}.]
That science, or class of sciences, which treats of the exact
relations existing between quantities or magnitudes, and of
the methods by which, in accordance with these relations,
quantities sought are deducible from other quantities known
or supposed; the science of spatial and quantitative
relations.
Note: Mathematics embraces three departments, namely: 1.
{Arithmetic}. 2. {Geometry}, including {Trigonometry}
and {Conic Sections}. 3. {Analysis}, in which letters
are used, including {Algebra}, {Analytical Geometry},
and {Calculus}. Each of these divisions is divided into
pure or abstract, which considers magnitude or quantity
abstractly, without relation to matter; and mixed or
applied, which treats of magnitude as subsisting in
material bodies, and is consequently interwoven with
physical considerations.