exponentiation

noun

ex·​po·​nen·​ti·​a·​tion ˌek-spə-ˌnen(t)-shē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce exponentiation (audio)
: the mathematical operation of raising a quantity to a power

called also involution

Examples of exponentiation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web That very long number is only the result of a threefold exponentiation. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 24 Jan. 2024 In the end, then, there are just two ways to solve the puzzle of the fourfold exponentiation of π. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 24 Jan. 2024 Though lacking the power of exponentiation, a device like this can avail itself of other features of quantum physics. Quanta Magazine, 29 Jan. 2018

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'exponentiation.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1903, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of exponentiation was in 1903

Dictionary Entries Near exponentiation

Cite this Entry

“Exponentiation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exponentiation. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

exponentiation

noun
ex·​po·​nen·​ti·​a·​tion ˌek-spə-ˌnen-chē-ˈā-shən How to pronounce exponentiation (audio)
: the mathematical operation of raising a quantity to a power
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