1a word or phrase used to describe a thing or to express a concept, especially in a particular kind of language or branch of study:the musical term ‘leitmotiv’a term of abuse
(terms) language used on a particular occasion; a way of expressing oneself:a protest in the strongest possible terms
Logic a word or words that may be the subject or predicate of a proposition.
2a fixed or limited period for which something, for example office, imprisonment, or investment, lasts or is intended to last:the President is elected for a single four-year term
(also term day) (especially in Scotland) a fixed day of the year appointed for the making of payments, the start or end of tenancies, etc..
(also full term) [mass noun] the completion of a normal length of pregnancy:the pregnancy went to full term
(British also term of years or USterm for years) Law a tenancy of a fixed period.
archaic the duration of a person’s life.
archaic a boundary or limit, especially of time.
3each of the periods in the year, alternating with holiday or vacation, during which instruction is given in a school, college, or university, or during which a law court holds sessions:the summer termterm starts tomorrow
4 (terms) conditions under which an action may be undertaken or agreement reached; stipulated or agreed requirements:their solicitors had agreed termshe could only be dealt with on his own terms
conditions with regard to payment for something; stated charges:loans on favourable terms
agreed conditions under which a war or other dispute is brought to an end:the United States played a key role in prodding the two sides to come to terms
5 Mathematics each of the quantities in a ratio, series, or mathematical expression.
