Comic · Birkhäuser

A Historical Dictionary of Mathematical Terms

Volume I: A-I

This unique reference work systematically presents and studies mathematical terms, sourcing literature from antiquity until the 20th century. The book provides detailed and reliable information on the origins and developments of more than 1,000 mathematical terms from all branches of mathematics. The dictionary is based on extensive research of the primary literature, cites from original sources, provides historical illustrations, discusses synonyms and competing terms, and quotes critical or approving comments on newly created terms. Each entry is self-contained and includes a bibliography. All major mathematical fields are represented, ranging from geometry and arithmetic to, for example, calculus, topology, and category theory. This is the first of two volumes, covering terms that begin with the letters A through I.