matrix

Definition of matrix

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'

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

Definition of matrix in the US English dictionary