: relating to, being, or containing a polynomial of the form xp−1 + xp−2 + … + x + 1 where p is a prime number

Word History

Etymology

cyclotomy mathematical theory of the division of the circle into equal parts, from cycl- + -tomy

First Known Use

1879, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cyclotomic was in 1879

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Cite this Entry

“Cyclotomic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cyclotomic. Accessed 5 Aug. 2026.

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