Definition:Leading Term

Definition

Let $P = a \circ b$ be an expression.

The term $a$ is known as the leading term of $P$.

Also known as

$a$ is also known, particularly in Euclid's The Elements, as the antecedent of $P$.

However, as this has a specific usage in the field of logic, it is preferred that the term not be used in this context.

Also see

• Definition:Following Term

Sources

• 1908: Sir Thomas L. Heath: Euclid: The Thirteen Books of The Elements ... (previous) ... (next): Volume $2$: Book $\text{V}$, Note on Definition $11$