Wednesday, December 05, 2007

Subtrahend

The subtrahend is the thing which is subtracted in a subtraction sum. Simple really. I remember learning maths. I even remember teaching it. But I don't remember coming across the subtrahend. However, memory isn't my strong point, so I figure it must be something I've filed away just a bit too carefully. Your invented meanings were exceptional and the runaway winner on the poll was b.e.mendez. Great work!

11 comments:

Maalie said...

Subtrahend is a police word. We all know what apprehend means; well subtrahend is an apprehension resulting from covert investigation. You sometimes hear in connection with narcotics and other gang-breaking investigations.

Sara said...

Drat! Maalie you just nicked my exact meaning. I'm sulking now and not playing, So there.

Thinks! said...

To subtrahend would be to understand or comprehend a principle subconsciuosly. i.e. without being able to explain it. Gosh! That's subtle isn't it!

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lorenzothellama said...

A 'hend' or 'henge' is a prehistoric settlement. Subtrahend means to excavate beneath a hend or henge, i.e. Stonehenge and Woodhenge.
Lorenzo.

Anonymous said...

A subtrahend is an underground trend meant to counter popular trends. This trend quickly becomes popular and thus results in another subtrahend, and the cycle continues.

Sandra Dodd said...

A subtrahend is an extra toe.

Anonymous said...

Ewe, gross . Sandra dodd is right it is an extra toe .But it is not just any toe its an extra 'big toe'.

Katt said...

Subtrahend.. is the electronic starter placed in the distribution chamber located in the ejector portion of the engine of a nucular submarine.

Anonymous said...

A subtrahend is actually a cul-de-sac in an underground railway system. The extra trains that are only brought out during peak operating times are stored in the subtrahends. They are also a favourite "dossing down" spot for homeless people who live in underground railway stations.

Anonymous said...

Subtrahend is similar in meaning to subtract as per Webster's NW Dictionary. But, in my view it sounds similar in meaning to be short-shrift

Anonymous said...

Subtrahend is the official name for a badger's set.
Badger.