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matrix

Pronunciation: /ˈmeɪtrɪks/
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Definition of 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

Origin:

late Middle English (in the sense 'womb'): from Latin, 'breeding female', later 'womb', from mater, matr- 'mother'

Spelling help

The plural of matrix can be spelled either matrices (like the original Latin) or matrixes.

matrix in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of matrix in the US English dictionary
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