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group theory

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Definition of group theory

: a branch of mathematics concerned with finding all mathematical groups and determining their properties

Examples of group theory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The question has to be asked about all great mathematicians who died young (notably Évariste Galois, inventor of group theory, who died at 20 in a gun duel). — Quanta Magazine, "Three Puzzles Inspired by Ramanujan," 14 July 2016

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'group theory.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

First Known Use of group theory

1888, in the meaning defined above

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The first known use of group theory was in 1888

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Cite this Entry

“Group theory.” The Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster Inc., https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/group%20theory. Accessed 7 December 2019.

More from Merriam-Webster on group theory

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about group theory

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