multiplicative inverse

noun

: an element of a mathematical set that when multiplied by a given element yields the identity element

called also reciprocal

Word History

First Known Use

1958, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of multiplicative inverse was in 1958

Dictionary Entries Near multiplicative inverse

Cite this Entry

“Multiplicative inverse.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/multiplicative%20inverse. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

multiplicative inverse

noun
: an element (as a reciprocal) of a mathematical set that when multiplied by a given element gives the identity element
in the set of all rational numbers the multiplicative inverse of 2 is ½ since 2 × ½ = 1

More from Merriam-Webster on multiplicative inverse

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