an ordered system for teaching fundamental concepts of mathematics by the use of set theory
new math in American English
noun
a unified, sequential system of teaching arithmetic and mathematics in accord with set theory so as to reveal basic concepts: used in some U.S. schools, esp. in the 1960s and 1970s
Also called: new mathematics
Word origin
[1965–70]This word is first recorded in the period 1965–70. Other words that entered Englishat around the same time include: Coriolis effect, Finlandization, genetic engineering, isometric exercise, overdub