Definition of "distributive" in English

adjective

1. Relating to distribution.

2. Tending to distribute; serving to divide and assign in portions; dealing a proper share to each.

3. (mathematics) A property of functions that have a rule describing how the function can be performed to the individual components of another operation.

   • If function f is distributive with respect to function g, then f(a,g(b,c))=g(f(a,b),f(a,c)).
   • If the operation ⋆ is distributive with respect to the operation ∘, then a⋆(b∘c)=(a⋆b)∘(a⋆c).

4. (logic) Assigning the species of a general term.

5. (grammar) Expressing separation; denoting a taking singly, not collectively.

   • a distributive adjective or pronoun, such as "each", "either", or "every"
   • a distributive numeral, such as Latin "bini" (two by two)

noun

1. (grammar) distributive case

2. (grammar) A distributive adjective or pronoun.

3. (mathematics) A distributive numeral.