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Algebra vocabulary word list

This list supports middle and high school students working through pre-algebra, Algebra 1, and Algebra 2. Use it to build a working vocabulary for reading word problems, following textbook explanations, and talking through steps with a teacher or study partner.

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Algebra vocabulary word list

32 words
WordMeaningIn a sentenceSave
variablenounA symbol that represents a value that may change or is not yet known.In x + 4 = 9, the variable x represents 5.
coefficientnounA numerical or constant factor that multiplies a variable in a mathematical expression.In the equation 3x + 2, the number 3 is the coefficient of x.
constantadjectiveOccurring continuously or remaining the same without change over time.The constant noise from the construction site made it hard to concentrate.
expressionnounA word, phrase, or look that conveys a particular meaning, feeling, or idea.Her puzzled expression clearly showed that she hadn't understood the joke.
equationnounA mathematical statement asserting that two expressions are equal in value.Students learned to solve for x in a simple linear equation.
inequalitynounA lack of equality, especially in status, rights, opportunities, or resources between people or groups.The report highlighted growing income inequality between the country's richest and poorest regions.
exponentnounIn mathematics, a number placed above and to the right of another number, showing how many times it is multiplied by itself.In the expression 2 to the power of 3, the exponent 3 tells us to multiply 2 by itself three times.
polynomialnounA mathematical expression made up of variables and coefficients combined using addition, subtraction, and multiplication.The teacher asked students to factor the polynomial into two simpler terms.
monomialnounA mathematical expression consisting of a single term, such as a number, a variable, or their product.The expression 5x squared is a monomial because it contains only one term.
binomialnoun(math) An algebraic expression consisting of two terms connected by a plus or minus sign.In algebra class, we learned to expand the binomial (x + y) squared.
quadraticadjectiveInvolving a variable raised to the second power, as in an equation of the form ax squared plus bx plus c.Students learned to solve a quadratic equation by factoring or using the quadratic formula.
linearadjectiveArranged in or resembling a straight line; progressing in a single, direct sequence.The graph showed a linear relationship between the hours studied and the test scores.
slopenounA surface or stretch of ground with one end higher than the other; an incline.Skiers raced down the steep slope toward the finish line.
interceptverbTo stop, catch, or seize something or someone before it reaches its intended destination.The defender intercepted the pass and raced down the field toward the goal.
functionnounThe particular purpose or role that something has, or the way it works.The main function of the heart is to pump blood throughout the body.
domainnounAn area of knowledge, activity, or life that belongs to or is controlled by a particular person or field.Climate modeling falls squarely within the domain of atmospheric science.
rangenounThe full extent of variation between an upper and a lower limit on a particular scale.The store carries a wide range of sizes to fit almost any customer.
factornounA number multiplied by another number to produce a product; for integers, a factor divides another integer without a remainder.In 3 × 8 = 24, both 3 and 8 are factors of 24.
factoringnounThe process of breaking a number or algebraic expression down into simpler factors that multiply together.Factoring the equation revealed that x could equal either two or negative three.
simplifyverbTo make something easier to understand or do by removing unnecessary complexity.The teacher simplified the instructions so that younger students could follow them.
substitutionnounThe act of putting one person or thing in place of another.The coach made a substitution in the final minutes to bring in fresh energy.
distributive propertynounThe mathematical rule stating that multiplying a sum by a number equals multiplying each addend separately and adding the results.Using the distributive property, 3 times the sum of 4 and 5 equals 3 times 4 plus 3 times 5.
like termsnounIn algebra, terms that contain the same variables raised to the same powers, so they can be combined by addition or subtraction.In the expression 4x + 3y - x, the terms 4x and -x are like terms.
absolute valuenounThe distance of a number from zero on a number line, regardless of whether it is positive or negative.The absolute value of negative seven is seven, written as the bars around minus seven.
radicaladjectiveRelating to or advocating for thorough, fundamental change, especially in political or social structures.The reformers proposed radical changes to how the healthcare system was funded.
exponentialadjectiveIncreasing or decreasing at a constantly growing rate, rather than by a fixed, steady amount.The virus spread at an exponential rate, doubling the number of cases every few days.
system of equationsnounA set of two or more equations with the same variables, solved together to find shared values.To solve the system of equations, she substituted the value of y from the first equation into the second.
integernounA whole number, positive, negative, or zero, with no fractional or decimal part.Five, negative three, and zero are all examples of integers.
rational numbernounA number that can be written as a fraction of two integers, with a nonzero denominator.Three-quarters is a rational number because it can be written as the fraction three over four.
reciprocaladjectiveGiven, felt, or done by each of two people or groups to the other; mutual.The two countries signed a reciprocal trade agreement that lowered tariffs on both sides.
termnounA word or phrase with a specific meaning, especially within a particular subject or field.The textbook defines every technical term in a glossary at the back.
formulanounA set of symbols or rules expressing a mathematical or scientific relationship.Students memorized the formula for finding the area of a circle before the exam.

Pre-algebra to Algebra 2

Pre-algebra vocabulary focuses on basics like integer, variable, and order of operations, while Algebra 1 adds terms such as slope, function, and linear equation. Algebra 2 builds further with quadratic, exponential, and system of equations. Working through the words in order of difficulty helps learners see how each course builds on the last.

Reading algebraic expressions

An algebraic expression combines numbers, variables, and operations without an equals sign, while an equation states that two expressions are equal. Knowing words like term, coefficient, and constant makes it easier to break an expression into parts, and understanding like terms helps when simplifying before solving.

Frequently asked questions

What is basic algebra vocabulary?

Basic algebra vocabulary includes words like variable, constant, expression, and equation that describe the building blocks of algebraic thinking before more advanced terms are introduced.

How is Algebra 2 vocabulary different from Algebra 1?

Algebra 2 vocabulary adds more advanced terms such as exponential, system of equations, and rational number, building on the linear and quadratic concepts introduced in Algebra 1.