SURD Meaning and
Definition
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A surd is a mathematical term that refers to an irrational number. In other words, a surd cannot be expressed as a fraction or a terminating or repeating decimal. Surds are typically written as the square root (√) of a non-square number, such as √2 or √5. However, surds can also arise from cube roots, fourth roots, and so on. The term "surd" is derived from the Latin word "surdus," which means deaf or mute, to indicate that these numbers are "speechless" and cannot be expressed precisely in terms of fractions or decimals.
Surds play a significant role in mathematics, particularly in geometry, trigonometry, and calculus. They can be used to represent exact values in certain mathematical equations or to solve problems involving polygons, triangles, or circles. Surds are often encountered when working with Pythagorean triples or when simplifying radical expressions. They can also be useful in expressing lengths or measurements that cannot be represented exactly as rational numbers.
In summary, a surd is an irrational number that cannot be expressed as a fraction or a terminating or repeating decimal. It is typically represented as the square root (√) or other roots of non-square numbers.
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• In alg., a quantity which cannot be expressed by rational numbers or exactly determined, as the square root of 2 or the cube root of 3.
• That cannot be expressed by rational numbers.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for SURD
- zurd
- eurd
- syrd
- sjrd
- s8rd
- s7rd
- sufd
- su5d
- surx
- saurd
- zsurd
- szurd
- xsurd
- sxurd
- dsurd
- sdurd
- esurd
- seurd
Etymology of SURD
The word "surd" derives from the Latin word "surdus", which means "deaf" or "mute". In Latin, "surdus" originally described a person with impaired hearing or speech. Over time, the term was also used metaphorically to refer to something that is inaudible or unintelligible. In mathematics, "surd" specifically refers to an irrational number, which cannot be expressed as a simple fraction and often involves square roots or cube roots.
Similar spelling words for SURD
