Trig: meaning, definitions and examples

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trig

 

[trɪg ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

Trig is a colloquial term for trigonometry, a branch of mathematics that deals with the relationships between the angles and sides of triangles. It is fundamental in various applications, including physics, engineering, and computer graphics.

Synonyms

trigonometry.

Examples of usage

  • I need to study trigonometry for my math exam.
  • The trig functions are essential for solving problems involving triangles.
  • Understanding trig can help in designing buildings and bridges.
  • He used trig to calculate the height of the mountain.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'trigonometry' comes from Greek words meaning 'triangle' and 'measure', showing its focus on triangles.
  • The study of angles and sides in triangles dates back to ancient civilizations, including the Egyptians and Babylonians.
  • The branch became popular in the Hellenistic period when astronomers needed it to calculate distances to stars.

Applications in Science

  • Trigonometry is essential in fields like physics for understanding wave patterns and forces.
  • It’s used in engineering to design structures and in computer graphics to create realistic 3D images.
  • Navigators rely on trigonometric calculations for plotting courses and determining distances on maps.

Pop Culture

  • Popular TV shows and movies often depict characters struggling with math, including trigonometry, adding humor to the subject.
  • In video games, trigonometric functions help in calculating movements and rotations of objects.
  • Musical composers use trigonometric principles to understand sound waves and harmonics in their compositions.

Psychology

  • Learning math, including trigonometry, can enhance problem-solving skills and cognitive abilities in children.
  • Studies suggest that visualizing shapes and angles can help students better grasp mathematical concepts.
  • Anxiety around math, known as 'math anxiety', is common, and recognizing this can improve teaching methods.

Literature

  • Various literary works have used mathematical concepts as metaphors for complex relationships or problem-solving.
  • Authors sometimes include characters who are mathematicians, portraying their struggles and triumphs in creative ways.
  • Poets may employ mathematical ideas, like symmetry or patterns, to enhance the beauty of their verses.

Translations

Translations of the word "trig" in other languages:

🇵🇹 trigonometria

🇮🇳 त्रिकोणमिति

🇩🇪 Trigonometrie

🇮🇩 trigonometri

🇺🇦 тригонометрія

🇵🇱 trygonometria

🇯🇵 三角法

🇫🇷 trigonométrie

🇪🇸 trigonometría

🇹🇷 trigonometri

🇰🇷 삼각법

🇸🇦 علم المثلثات

🇨🇿 trigonometrie

🇸🇰 trigonómia

🇨🇳 三角学

🇸🇮 trigonometrija

🇮🇸 þríhyrningafræði

🇰🇿 үшбұрыштар теориясы

🇬🇪 ტრიგონომეტრია

🇦🇿 trigonometri

🇲🇽 trigonometría

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,538 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.