theorem

noun

the·​o·​rem ˈthē-ə-rəm How to pronounce theorem (audio)
ˈthir-əm
1
: a formula, proposition, or statement in mathematics or logic deduced or to be deduced from other formulas or propositions
2
: an idea accepted or proposed as a demonstrable truth often as a part of a general theory : proposition
the theorem that the best defense is offense
3
4
: a painting produced especially on velvet by the use of stencils for each color
theorematic adjective

Examples of theorem in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web In a series of two papers in the 1990s, Ruzsa re-proved Freiman’s theorem with an elegant new argument. Leila Sloman, Quanta Magazine, 6 Dec. 2023 Check your measurements based on the Pythagorean theorem formula above and cut two angled 2x4 pieces for each front and back of the doghouse. Timothy Dale, Better Homes & Gardens, 7 Aug. 2023 See all Example Sentences for theorem 

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

Word History

Etymology

Late Latin theorema, from Greek theōrēma, from theōrein to look at, from theōros spectator, from thea act of seeing — more at theater entry 1

First Known Use

1551, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of theorem was in 1551

Dictionary Entries Near theorem

Cite this Entry

“Theorem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/theorem. Accessed 29 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

theorem

noun
the·​o·​rem ˈthē-ə-rəm How to pronounce theorem (audio)
ˈthi(-ə)r-əm
1
: a formula, proposition, or statement in mathematics or logic that has been or is to be proved from other formulas or propositions
2
: an idea accepted or proposed as a demonstrable truth

More from Merriam-Webster on theorem

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