Definition of inverse

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< Inverness

inverse function >

in·verse    (n-vûrs, nvûrs) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:

1. Reversed in order, nature, or effect.
2. Mathematics Of or relating to an inverse or an inverse function.
3. Archaic Turned upside down; inverted.

NOUN:
(nvûrs, n-vûrs)

1. Something that is opposite, as in sequence or character; the reverse.
2. Mathematics One of a pair of elements in a set whose result under the operation of the set is the identity element, especially:
   1. The reciprocal of a designated quantity. Also called multiplicative inverse.
   2. The negative of a designated quantity. Also called additive inverse.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Latin inversus, past participle of invertere, to invert ; see invert

OTHER FORMS:
in·versely(Adverb)