Menelaus' theorem

noun

Men·​e·​la·​us' theorem
¦menə¦lāəs(ə̇z)-
: a theorem in geometry: if through a triangle ABC a transversal is drawn cutting the sides BC, AB, AC (produced if necessary) in the respective points p, q, r, then the product Aq×Bp×Cr is numerically equal to the product Bq×Cp×Ar

Word History

Etymology

after Menelaus, 1st century a.d. Greek geometer

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Menelaus' theorem

Cite this Entry

“Menelaus' theorem.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Menelaus%27%20theorem. Accessed 25 Apr. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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