Definition of arithmetic

The word "arithmetic" has its roots in ancient Greek. The term "arithmos" means "number" and "tik" means "art" or "doing". In Greek, the word "arithmos" was used to describe counting and numbers. The Greek philosopher Pythagoras used the term "arithmos" to describe the study of numbers and their relationships. Over time, the Latin word "arithmetica" was derived from "arithmos". The Latin word was later adopted into Middle English as "arithmetike", which was shortened to "arithmetic" in Modern English. The word "arithmetic" initially referred to the study of numbers and their relations as well as the practical application of mathematical skills. Today, the term "arithmetic" encompasses various mathematical practices, including basic addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, as well as advanced concepts like algebra and calculus.