Addition Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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addition

[əˈdɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematical operation

The action or process of adding something to something else. It is the process of combining two or more numbers to get a total.

Synonyms

plus, sum, total.

Examples of usage

  • The addition of 2 and 3 results in 5.
  • She is practicing addition with her students.
Context #2 | Noun

extra item

An extra item that is added to something.

Synonyms

add-on, extra, supplement.

Examples of usage

  • The ice cream sundae comes with the addition of whipped cream and a cherry.
  • He made the decision to move forward with the addition of a new feature to the product.
Context #3 | Noun

increase

The action of making something greater by adding to it.

Synonyms

augmentation, boost, increase.

Examples of usage

  • The addition of new members to the team boosted productivity.
  • The addition of technology to the classroom enhanced the learning experience.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Addition is one of the four basic operations in arithmetic, alongside subtraction, multiplication, and division.
  • It is illustrated on a number line as moving to the right, demonstrating how values increase.

Psychology

  • Research shows that developing addition skills is crucial in early childhood, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Learning addition can enhance overall cognitive skills, as it requires the brain to recognize and combine quantities.

History

  • The concept of addition has been used for thousands of years; ancient civilizations like the Babylonians utilized simple techniques for counting and adding.
  • The development of the abacus in ancient China greatly advanced calculation methods, making addition quicker and easier.

Pop Culture

  • In video games, addition is often used in scoring systems, allowing players to understand their progress and success through cumulative points.
  • Many educational shows and apps use catchy songs and games to teach addition, making learning fun and engaging for children.

Origin of 'addition'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originated from the Latin 'additio', meaning 'a putting to', showing its roots in the concept of combining.
  • The prefix 'ad-' means 'to' or 'toward', while 'itio' relates to 'action', framing addition as an act of bringing things together.

The word 'addition' originated from the Latin word 'additionem', meaning 'a adding to'. It has been used in the English language since the late 14th century. The concept of addition has been fundamental in mathematics and daily life, representing the process of combining or increasing something.


See also: add, addable, added, adder, addict, adding, additional, additions, additive, addon.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #394, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.