Definition

A number that is taken away from another number in a subtraction operation.

Example

In the equation 10 - 4 = 6, the number 4 is the subtrahend.

Conversation

I was struggling with my math homework last night.

What part was giving you trouble?

It was about finding the subtrahend in some equations.

Oh, I can help with that! It's just the number you subtract from another.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Subtrahend → It is formed from "sub-" (meaning under or below) and "trahere" (meaning to draw or pull). The word refers to a number that is to be subtracted from another number, effectively drawing it down or away from the total.

Memory Tip

Think of 'drawing down' ('trahere') a number 'under' ('sub-') another number — that's why a subtrahend is the number being taken away.

Visually Confused Words