graph

/ɡɹæf/

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Also seen as: graphs · graphing · graphed

Sense 1

Meaning · English

A data chart (graphical representation of data) intended to illustrate the relationship between a set (or sets) of numbers (quantities, measurements or indicative numbers) and a reference set, whose elements are indexed to those of the former set(s) and may or may not be numbers.

Noun

Examples

Drawings and pictures are more than mere ornaments in scientific discourse. Blackboard sketches, geological maps, diagrams of molecular structure, astronomical photographs, MRI images, the many varieties of statistical charts and graphs: These pictorial devices are indispensable tools for presenting

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 2

Meaning · English

A set of points constituting a graphical representation of a real function; (formally) a set of tuples (x_1,x_2,…,x_m,y)∈ R ᵐ⁺¹, where y=f(x_1,x_2,…,x_m) for a given function f: R ᵐ→ R . See also Graph of a function on Wikipedia.Wikipedia

Noun

Examples

1969 [MIT Press], Thomas Walsh, Randell Magee (translators), I. M. Gelfand, E. G. Glagoleva, E. E. Shnol, Functions and Graphs, 2002, Dover, page 19, Let us take any point of the first graph, for example, x=1/2,y=4/5, that is, the point M_1(1/2,4/5).

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 3

Meaning · English

To draw a graph, to record graphically.

Verb

Examples

When the doctor took the picture that was to be graphed onto Johnny’s balloon head, he suggested that Johnny make a normal face, without expressing any emotion. But Johnny didn’t like that idea. He’d rather look eternally cheerful than express nothing but apathy for the rest of his life.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Sense 4

Meaning · English

To draw a graph of a function.

Verb

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-08-01 via kaikki.org).

Common questions

What does “graph” mean?

A data chart (graphical representation of data) intended to illustrate the relationship between a set (or sets) of numbers (quantities, measurements or indicative numbers) and a reference set, whose elements are indexed to those of the former set(s) and may or may not be numbers.

Is “graph” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.