Main Entry: gauss

Pronunciation: \ˈgau̇s\

Function: noun

Inflected Form(s): plural gauss also gauss·es

: the cgs unit of magnetic flux density that is equal to 1 × 10⁻⁴ tesla

Gauss, Carl Friedrich (1777–1855), German mathematician and astronomer. Gauss is generally regarded as one of the greatest mathematicians of all times. His work on the theory of numbers, published in 1801, is one of the most brilliant achievements in the history of mathematics. Gauss was also a pioneer in applying mathematics to gravitation, electricity, and magnetism. The gauss was named in his honor in 1882.