- term
- noun1》 a word or phrase used to describe a thing or to express a concept.↘(terms) a way of expressing oneself: a protest in the strongest terms.↘Logic a word or words that may be the subject or predicate of a proposition.2》 a fixed or limited period for which something lasts or is intended to last.↘(also term day) (especially in Scotland) a fixed day of the year appointed for the making of payments, the start of tenancies, etc.↘(also full term) the completion of a normal length of pregnancy.↘(Brit. also term of years or US term for years) Law a tenancy of a fixed period.↘archaic a limit, especially of time.3》 each of the periods in the year during which instruction is given in a school, college, etc., or during which a law court holds sessions.4》 (terms) stipulated or agreed requirements.↘conditions with regard to payment.↘agreed conditions under which a dispute is settled.5》 Mathematics each of the quantities in a ratio, series, or mathematical expression.6》 Architecture a terminus.verb call by a specified term.Phrasescome to terms with reconcile oneself to.in terms of (or in —— terms) with regard to the aspect or subject specified.the long/short/medium term a period that is a specified way into the future.on terms in a state of friendship or equality.↘(in sport) level in score.on —— terms on a specified footing.terms of reference Brit. the scope of an inquiry or discussion.Derivativestermly adjective & adverb (Brit.).OriginME: from OFr. terme, from L. terminus 'end, boundary, limit'.
English new terms dictionary. 2014.