Middle English Dictionary Entry
thēta n.
Entry Info
| Forms | thēta n. Also teta, tetha. |
| Etymology | L thēta, ML tēta & OF tetha; ult. Gr. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
1.
(a) The name of the letter Θ in the Greek alphabet, theta; (b) the sign of the cross [based on the L transliteration of the Greek character; cp. tau n.]; (c) math. the arithmetical symbol for zero.
Associated quotations
a
- ?a1425 Mandev.(2) (Eg 1982)11/2 : If ȝe wil wit of þe abce of Grew and what kyn letters þai hafe, here ȝe may see þam and þer names also: alpha α, beta β..hetha η, tetha Θ [F th tetha], iota ι, [etc.].
b
- a1500 Leg.Cross BC(1) (Wor F.172)214 : Seth..marked hym silf with the sign Teta or Tau [L teta, vr. Theta vel Thau], and with a myrry pas cam to Paradice.
c
- c1450 Art Number.(Ashm 396)34/20 : Ther ben 9 lymytes of figures that representen the 9 digites..The 10 is clepede theta [L theta], or a cercle, other a cifre, or a figure of nought, for nought it signyfiethe.