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matrix

Syllabification: (ma·trix)

Pronunciation: /ˈmātriks/

Definition of matrix

1an environment or material in which something develops; a surrounding medium or structure:free choices become the matrix of human life
a mass of fine-grained rock in which gems, crystals, or fossils are embedded.
Biology the substance between cells or in which structures are embedded.
fine material:the matrix of gravel paths is raked regularly

2a mold in which something, such as printing type or a phonograph record, is cast or shaped.

3 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.
an organizational structure in which two or more lines of command, responsibility, or communication may run through the same individual.

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 British & World English dictionary

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