Plural form of directrix; multiple fixed lines that guide the shapes of curves in geometry.
From the plural of Latin 'directrix,' formed by adding the English plural suffix '-es' to the Latin feminine noun form.
While 'directrices' is the proper Latin plural, 'directrixes' shows how mathematical terms in English often just follow regular English pluralization rules—mathematicians are pretty practical about grammar!
Anglicized plural of directrix (alternative: directrices). Retains Latin gender marking in technical English.
Use in mathematical/technical contexts. Both 'directrices' and 'directrixes' are standard; no gender bias in application.
Women mathematicians have used and extended such concepts; terminology is neutral functionally.
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