partial fraction

noun Algebra.

one of the fractions into which a given fraction can be resolved, the sum of such simpler fractions being equal to the given fraction: Partial fractions of 5/(x2−x) are 5/(x−1) and −5/x.

Origin of partial fraction

First recorded in 1810–20

Words nearby partial fraction

partial derivative, partial differential, partial differential equation, partial differentiation, partial eclipse, partial fraction, partial ophthalmoplegia, partial ordering, partial pressure, partial product, partial reinforcement

British Dictionary definitions for partial fraction

partial fraction

noun

maths one of a set of fractions into which a more complicated fraction can be resolved