Definition of a Base

Base of Triangle and Trapezoid. D.Russell
By
Deb Russell
Deb Russell
Math Expert
Deb Russell is a school principal and teacher with over 25 years of experience teaching mathematics at all levels.
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Updated on March 06, 2017
Math is already its own language, so make sure you know the meaning of words used to describe it!
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Math Glossary: Mathematics Terms and Definitions
By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.

Definition: The bottom of a shape, solid or three dimensional object. The base is what the object 'rests' on. Base is used in polygons, shapes and solids. The base is used as a reference side for other measurements, most often used in triangles. The base is the surface of the object that is stands on or it is the bottom line.

Examples: The bottom of the triangular based prism is considered the base. The bottom line of the trapezoid can be considered the base.

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Russell, Deb. "Definition of a Base." ThoughtCo, Aug. 26, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-a-base-2312351. Russell, Deb. (2020, August 26). Definition of a Base. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-a-base-2312351 Russell, Deb. "Definition of a Base." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-a-base-2312351 (accessed April 24, 2024).