Etiology of "Quadratic" (i.e. equation)

[Ringo847]

Why is it called Quadratic if the root word (Quad) means 4? Doesn't the quadratic equation refer to a perfect trinomial (sp?)? This could mean extra credit in my calculus class. Thanks.

[Earl Snake-Hips Tucker]

Someone else with your same name asked this same question yesterday:

http://boards.straightdope.com/sdmb/showthread.php?threadid=208784

:dubious:

[DrMatrix]

Don't repost threads.

This is closed.

DrMatrix - GQ Moderator