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Cos Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cos

[kɔs ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

Cosine is a trigonometric function that relates the angle of a right triangle to the ratio of the length of the adjacent side to the length of the hypotenuse. It is commonly denoted as 'cos' and is used in various applications within geometry and physics.

Synonyms

ratio, trigonometric function.

Examples of usage

  • The cosine of 0 degrees is 1.
  • In a right triangle, cos(theta) = adjacent/hypotenuse.
  • To find the cosine of an angle, use the unit circle.
Context #2 | Noun

abbreviation

Cos can also refer to 'cosmic' or 'cosmetics', depending on the context of the conversation. It is frequently used as an abbreviation in informal contexts.

Synonyms

cosmetics, cosmic.

Examples of usage

  • She works in the cosmetics industry.
  • He is fascinated by cos-related concepts.
  • They're launching a new line of cos products.

Translations

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

Origin of 'cos'

The term 'cosine' comes from the Latin words 'complementi sinus', meaning 'sine of the complement'. The sine function traces its origins back to ancient Indian mathematics, where it was used to solve problems involving right triangles. The term 'cosine' was coined in the 16th century by the mathematician Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz, who synthesized these ideas, combining the concepts of angles and triangles with his own mathematical developments in calculus. Furthermore, the abbreviation 'cos' began to be used widely in mathematical contexts by the 19th century, becoming a standard notation in trigonometry. The modern usage of 'cos' in mathematics solidified its place as an essential framework for understanding angles and their relationships to various geometric shapes and phenomena.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,085, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.