In mathematics, the logarithm of a number is a number that it can be represented by in order to make a difficult multiplication or division sum simpler.
logarithm in British English
(ˈlɒɡəˌrɪðəm)
noun
the exponent indicating the power to which a fixed number, the base, must be raised to obtain a given number or variable. It is used esp to simplify multiplication and division: if ax = M, then the logarithm of M to the base a (written logaM) is x
Often shortened to: log. See also common logarithm, natural logarithm
Word origin
C17: from New Latin logarithmus, coined 1614 by John Napier, from Greek logos ratio, reckoning + arithmos number
logarithm in American English
(ˈlɔgəˌrɪðəm; ˈlɑgərɪðəm)
noun
Ancient Mathematics
the exponent expressing the power to which a fixed number (the base) must be raised in order to produce a given number (the antilogarithm): logarithms computed to the base 10 are often used for shortening mathematical calculations
Derived forms
logarithmic (ˌlogaˈrithmic)
adjective
logarithmically (ˌlogaˈrithmically)
adverb
Word origin
ModL logarithmus < Gr logos, a word, proportion, ratio (see logic) + arithmos, number (see arithmetic)
Examples of 'logarithm' in a sentence
logarithm
Logarithms made sense when electronic calculators were as big as shipping containers.
Times, Sunday Times (2011)
The notes on the keyboard get closer together according to the difference between the sequence of the logarithms of natural numbers.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
A book of logarithms is arranged rather like a dictionary.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
It is easy to get lost in the figures and horrible memories of schoolday logarithms, but here is some context.