vinculum
/ˈvɪŋkjələm/
noun
- A horizontal line placed over a group of mathematical terms to show that they are to be treated as a single unit, similar to parentheses.
- The teacher drew a vinculum above the numerator and denominator to clarify the fraction.
- When writing radicals, a vinculum is used to indicate the entire expression under the root sign.
- In the expression 2 + 3 × 4, a vinculum over 3 + 4 would change the order of operations.
- A bond or connection that ties things together.
- Language is a powerful vinculum that connects people across cultures.
- Shared history can act as a vinculum between generations.
- The treaty served as a vinculum uniting the two nations.