Dorism

/ˈdɔrɪzəm/ noun

Definition

In mathematics and geometry, an archaic term for a preliminary condition or given assumption that must be established before proving a theorem.

Etymology

From Greek 'doron' (gift) through medieval Latin mathematical terminology; used in classical geometry texts by Euclid and later mathematicians.

Kelly Says

Dorism is pure mathematical archaeology—it's a term from Euclidean geometry that disappeared when mathematicians adopted clearer language like 'hypothesis' and 'givens,' showing how even technical jargon evolves.

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