multiplication sign
- noun
- /ˌmʌltɪplɪˈkeɪʃən saɪn/
- Specialized
- In mathematical equations, the multiplication sign is often represented by the symbol ×.
Examples
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Be careful not to confuse the letter x with the multiplication sign when solving problems.
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The multiplication sign is often used in math classes.
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Some calculators use an asterisk instead of the multiplication sign for entering products.
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Can you show me the multiplication sign on the board?
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In mathematics, the multiplication sign is represented by the symbol '×'.
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To find the area of a rectangle, use the multiplication sign in the formula length times width.
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When writing equations, remember to include the multiplication sign between the numbers.
Synonyms
A symbol × used to show multiplication between numbers
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning is directly and transparently derived from combining 'multiplication' (the mathematical operation) with 'sign' (a symbol), yielding 'the symbol for multiplication'. This noun+noun composition is a regular compositional pattern found across many languages, so a B1 learner who knows both words will readily infer the MWE's meaning.
Etymology
Multiplication sign is the small symbol ×, two crossing lines like an 'x' or two sticks. That's why the picture makes you think of putting groups together many times, and the sign means 'multiply' or 'times'.