arithmetic

noun

ə-ˈrith-mə-ˌtik How to pronounce arithmetic (audio)
Definition of arithmeticnext
as in math
the act or process of performing mathematical operations to find a value I haven't actually done the arithmetic yet, but I suspect we're losing money on the deal

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of arithmetic That arithmetic has become increasingly difficult for Japan to fight. — Lee Ying Shan, CNBC, 1 July 2026 Coalition arithmetic remains the central challenge, not just for Eisenkot but for the entire anti-Netanyahu bloc. — Tal Shalev, CNN Money, 29 June 2026 The arithmetic was straightforward. — Nick Lichtenberg, Fortune, 17 June 2026 The original campaign worked that seam with radiation and arithmetic. — Ethan Stone, AZCentral.com, 17 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for arithmetic
Recent Examples of Synonyms for arithmetic
  1. math
  2. calculation
Noun
  • Eighth grade math scores in APS improved by 10 points between 2024 and 2026.
    — AJ Willingham, AJC.com, 10 Aug. 2026
  • What is presented as a surplus is political math, the short-term cash-basis budget view that governments use (like your checkbook).
    — Sheila Weinberg, Baltimore Sun, 9 Aug. 2026
Definition of math
Noun
  • Amazon Web Services completed several studies, doing calculations based on how many employees and trucks would run through the site.
    — Maya Wilkins, Chicago Tribune, 6 Aug. 2026
  • Even with his professional expertise and years of conversations with his grandmother about her wishes, Ashton, the executor of her estate, said deciding what to do with the house isn't simply a financial calculation.
    — Sharon Epperson,Stephanie Dhue, CNBC, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of calculation

Browse Nearby Words

aristocrats
arithmetic
arithmetic mean
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Cite this Entry

“Arithmetic.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/arithmetic. Accessed 13 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on arithmetic

Nglish: Translation of arithmetic for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about arithmetic

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