infinitesimal Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun (mathematics) a variable that has zero as its limit
  2. adjective satellite infinitely or immeasurably small
    minute.
    • two minute whiplike threads of protoplasm
    • reduced to a microscopic scale

WordNet

In`fin*i*tes"i*mal adjective
Etymology
Cf. F. infinitésimal, fr. infinitésime infinitely small, fr. L. infinitus. See Infinite, a.
Definitions
  1. Infinitely or indefinitely small; less than any assignable quantity or value; very small.
In`fin*i*tes"i*mal noun
Definitions
  1. (Math.) An infinitely small quantity; that which is less than any assignable quantity.

Webster 1913