calculus of variations

noun phrase

: a branch of mathematics concerned with applying the methods of calculus to finding the maxima and minima of a function which depends for its values on another function or a curve

Word History

First Known Use

1784, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of calculus of variations was in 1784

Dictionary Entries Near calculus of variations

Cite this Entry

“Calculus of variations.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/calculus%20of%20variations. Accessed 31 Oct. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on calculus of variations

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!