matrix

noun (plural matrices /-siːz/ or matrixes)

• 1the cultural, social, or political environment in which something develops:Oxbridge was the matrix of the ideology

• 2a mass of fine-grained rock in which gems, crystals, or fossils are embedded: nodules of secondary limestone set in a matrix of porous dolomite [mass noun]:such fossils will often be partly concealed by matrix
• Biology the substance between cells or in which structures are embedded: the lipid matrix of olfactory cells
• fine material used to bind together the coarser particles of a composite substance: the matrix of gravel paths is hoed regularly

• 3a mould in which something, such as a record or printing type, is cast or shaped: her two duets with Isobel Baillie were never issued and the matrices were destroyed

• 4 Mathematics a rectangular array of quantities or expressions in rows and columns that is treated as a single entity and manipulated according to particular rules: this formula applies for all square matrices
• a grid-like arrangement of elements; a lattice: a sparse matrix is a data structure in which few of the potential elements are filled out

• 5an organizational structure in which two or more lines of command, responsibility, or communication may run through the same individual: [as modifier]:matrix structures are said to foster greater flexibility