A theorem is something to be proved, and is thus distinguished from a problem, which is something to be solved. In analysis, the term is sometimes applied to a rule, especially a rule or statement of relations expressed in a formula or by symbols; as, the binomial theorem; Taylor's theorem. See the Note under Proposition, n., 5.
Binomial theorem. (Math.) See under Binomial. — Negative theorem, a theorem which expresses the impossibility of any assertion. — Particular theorem (Math.), a theorem which extends only to a particular quantity. — Theorem of Pappus. (Math.) See Centrobaric method, under Centrobaric. — Universal theorem (Math.), a theorem which extends to any quantity without restriction.
The"o*rem, v. t. To formulate into a theorem.
{ The`o*re*mat"ic (?), The`o*re*mat"ic*al (?), } a. [Cf. Gr. &?;.] Of or pertaining to a theorem or theorems; comprised in a theorem; consisting of theorems.
The`o*rem"a*tist (?), n. One who constructs theorems.
{ The`o*ret"ic (?), The`o*ret"ic*al (?), } a. [Gr. &?;: cf. L. theoreticus, F. théorétique.] Pertaining to theory; depending on, or confined to, theory or speculation; speculative; terminating in theory or speculation: not practical; as, theoretical learning; theoretic sciences. — The`o*ret"ic*al*ly, adv.
The`o*ret"ics (?), n. The speculative part of a science; speculation.
At the very first, with our Lord himself, and his apostles, as represented to us in the New Testament, morals come before contemplation, ethics before theoretics.
The*or"ic (?), a. [Cf. F. théorique. See Theory.] 1. Of or pertaining to the theorica.
2. (pron. &?;) Relating to, or skilled in, theory; theoretically skilled. [Obs.]
A man but young, Yet old in judgment, theoric and practic In all humanity.
The"o*ric (?), n. [OF. theorique; cf. L. theorice.] Speculation; theory. [Obs.] Shak.
||The*or"i*ca (?), n. pl. [NL., fr. Gr. &?; (sc. &?;), fr. &?; ||belonging to &?; a public spectacle. See Theory.] (Gr. Antiq.) Public ||moneys expended at Athens on festivals, sacrifices, and public ||entertainments (especially theatrical performances), and in gifts to ||the people; — also called theoric fund. || The*or"ic*al (?), a. Theoretic. [Obs.] Bp. Hall.
The*or"ic*al*ly, adv. In a theoretic manner. [Obs.]