complex number

noun

: a number of the form a + b √-1 where a and b are real numbers

Examples of complex number in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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Also, twistor space seems to play a key role, and on the twistor side everything is described by calculus with complex numbers, which is one of the most beautiful parts of mathematics. Quanta Magazine, 25 Sep. 2024 But complex numbers live up to their name: The set’s boundary is magnificently intricate. Quanta Magazine, 26 Jan. 2024 So if a proof requires an intermediate step in which, for example, there are complex numbers that may contain square roots of negative values, programming languages specialized for geometry cannot be used. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 17 Jan. 2024 Quadratic reciprocity was the inspiration, according to Conrad. Patterns that had been elusive without complex numbers now started to emerge. Quanta Magazine, 1 Nov. 2023 See all Example Sentences for complex number 

Word History

First Known Use

1856, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of complex number was in 1856

Dictionary Entries Near complex number

Cite this Entry

“Complex number.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/complex%20number. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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