Definition

The quality of being at right angles to something else, often used in mathematics and geometry to describe lines or vectors that are perpendicular to each other.

Example

In mathematics, orthogonality is important for understanding the relationships between different vectors.

Conversation

I just learned about orthogonality in my math class.

Oh really? What does that mean exactly?

It’s basically about how different vectors can be independent of each other.

That makes sense! It sounds really useful in geometry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Orthogonality → It is formed from "ortho-" (from Greek "orthos", meaning straight or correct) and "gonia" (from Greek "gonia", meaning angle). The term refers to the property of being at right angles or perpendicular, thus conveying the idea of straightness in relation to angles.

Memory Tip

Think of 'straight' ('ortho-') and 'angle' ('gonia') to remember that 'orthogonality' refers to the concept of right angles or perpendicularity.

Visually Confused Words