zeta

noun

ze·​ta ˈzā-tə How to pronounce zeta (audio)
ˈzē-
: the 6th letter of the Greek alphabet see Alphabet Table

Example Sentences

Recent Examples on the Web Riemann’s question hinges on the Riemann zeta function. Kevin Hartnett, Quanta Magazine, 13 Jan. 2022 The Riemann zeta function is the most famous member of a large class of mathematical objects, L-functions, that encode many different arithmetic relationships. Kevin Hartnett, Quanta Magazine, 13 Jan. 2022

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

Word History

Etymology

Greek zēta

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zeta was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near zeta

Cite this Entry

“Zeta.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zeta. Accessed 28 May. 2023.

Kids Definition

zeta

noun
ze·​ta ˈzāt-ə How to pronounce zeta (audio)
: the sixth letter of the Greek alphabet
Ζ or ζ
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