del

1 of 4

noun

ˈdel 

plural dels

mathematics

: an operator (see operator sense 3a) upon a function of three variables (as x, y, and z) interpreted as coordinates in a right-handed rectangular system for obtaining the partial derivatives of the function, for multiplying these derivatives by the unit vectors (as I, J, K) along the axes, and for adding the results

The vector differential operator ∇ (often called del) is the mathematical operator which determines how much vectors change in each of their 3 spatial components.

—Rhodri Evans

—often used before another noun

We will soon see that the dot and cross products between the del operator and a vector also define useful operations.

—Markus Zahn

del

2 of 4

abbreviation (1)

1

delegate; delegation

2

delete

Del

3 of 4

abbreviation (2)

Delaware

del.

4 of 4

Latin abbreviation

delineavit

Word History

Etymology

Noun

probably as abbreviation for delta entry 1

First Known Use

Noun

1901, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

del

abbreviation

delusion