Math Terms That Start With W — Definition, Formula & Examples
Math terms that start with W is a glossary collection of mathematical vocabulary beginning with the letter W, including words like whole number, width, weight, weighted average, and word form.
This entry serves as an alphabetical index grouping standard mathematical terms whose names begin with the letter W, providing a navigational reference within a comprehensive mathematics glossary organized from A to Z.
How It Works
Use this page as a quick reference when you encounter an unfamiliar math word starting with W. Key terms include: **Whole Number** — any non-negative integer (0, 1, 2, 3, ...). **Width** — the horizontal measurement of a shape, often paired with length and height. **Weighted Average** — an average where some values count more than others based on assigned weights. **Word Form** — writing a number using words instead of digits (e.g., "forty-two" for 42). **W** also appears as a common variable in algebra, especially for width in area and volume formulas.
Worked Example
Problem: Find the weighted average of three test scores: 80 (weight 2), 90 (weight 3), and 70 (weight 1).
Step 1: Multiply each score by its weight.
Step 2: Add the weighted values and divide by the total weight.
Answer: The weighted average is approximately 83.3.
Why It Matters
Knowing W-terms like whole number and weighted average helps in pre-algebra and algebra courses where precise vocabulary matters on standardized tests. Width appears constantly in geometry when calculating area, perimeter, and volume of rectangles and rectangular prisms.
Common Mistakes
Mistake: Confusing whole numbers with integers by thinking whole numbers include negative values.
Correction: Whole numbers are 0, 1, 2, 3, ... only. Integers also include negative numbers like −1, −2, −3.