noncommutative

adjective

non·​com·​mu·​ta·​tive ˌnän-kə-ˈmyü-tə-tiv How to pronounce noncommutative (audio)
-ˈkäm-yə-ˌtā-tiv
mathematics
: of, relating to, having, or being the property that a given mathematical operation and set have when the result obtained using any two elements of the set with the operation differs with the order in which the elements are used : not commutative
Subtraction is a noncommutative operation.
noncommutativity noun

Examples of noncommutative in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Ultimately, the way to answer this question was to use a tool from algebraic geometry called the noncommutative Positivstellensatz. Rachel Crowell, Quanta Magazine, 1 Mar. 2023

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

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of noncommutative was in 1846

Dictionary Entries Near noncommutative

Cite this Entry

“Noncommutative.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/noncommutative. Accessed 29 Mar. 2024.

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