vinculum

noun

vin·​cu·​lum ˈviŋ-kyə-ləm How to pronounce vinculum (audio)
plural vinculums or vincula ˈviŋ-kyə-lə How to pronounce vinculum (audio)
1
: a unifying bond : link, tie
2
: a straight horizontal mark placed over two or more members of a compound mathematical expression and equivalent to parentheses or brackets about them

Illustration of vinculum

Illustration of vinculum
  • vinculum 2

Word History

Etymology

Latin, from vincire to bind

First Known Use

1661, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of vinculum was in 1661

Dictionary Entries Near vinculum

Cite this Entry

“Vinculum.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/vinculum. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

vinculum

noun
vin·​cu·​lum ˈviŋ-kyə-ləm How to pronounce vinculum (audio)
plural vinculums or vincula -lə How to pronounce vinculum (audio)
: a straight horizontal mark placed over two or more members of a compound mathematical expression and equivalent to parentheses or brackets around them
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