axiom of choice

noun phrase

: an axiom in set theory that is equivalent to Zorn's lemma: for every collection of nonempty sets there is a function which chooses an element from each set

Examples of axiom of choice in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web And therefore, the axiom of choice shouldn’t be accepted. Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 19 Apr. 2023 That is, if the axioms of ZFC without the axiom of choice are consistent, then so too is the set of axioms of ZFC with the axiom of choice. Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 19 Apr. 2023 So the axiom of choice is — this is another can of worms here. Steven Strogatz, Quanta Magazine, 19 Apr. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'axiom of choice.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1919, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of axiom of choice was in 1919

Dictionary Entries Near axiom of choice

Cite this Entry

“Axiom of choice.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/axiom%20of%20choice. Accessed 24 Apr. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on axiom of choice

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!