The words of mathematics: an etymological dictionary of mathematical terms used in English

Steven Schwartzman0883855119, 9780883855119

The Words of Mathematics explains the origins of over 1500 mathematical terms used in English. While other dictionaries of mathematics define technical terms, this book concentrates on where those terms come from and what their literal meanings are.
This dictionary is easy to use. although some of the entries are highly technical, the book explains them in plain English. The introduction gives an overview of how the ancient language known as Indo-European developed into Latin, Greek, French, and English, the languages from which most of our mathematical vocabulary has been derives. Another section discusses the many ways in which mathematicains have borrowed and created their specialized vocabulary over the centuries. A glossary explains historical and linguistic terms used throughout the book.
This dictionary is an indispensable reference for every librar that serves teachers and students of mathematics. It is a natural source of information for courses in the history of mathematics and for mathematics courses intended for liberal arts students. At the individual level, whether you are a teacher or a student of mathematics, a lover of words, or both; whether you are a veteran mathematician or a novice, you will find material in this book appropriate to your level of language and mathematics. You will certainly find many things you never knew about mathematics and langusge.