noun
set
A collection of elements treated as a unit.
This set of measuring cups includes four different sizes.
Etymology
Set developed a noun sense for things placed or grouped together. Mathematics makes that grouping precise by treating specified elements as one collection.
More examples
- We keep a spare set of keys with our neighbor.
- The numbers two, four, and six form a set of even numbers.
- She wins the first set of the tennis match.
Forms
set · sets
subset noun — A set whose elements all belong to another.
Similar words
- group
- Emphasizes members considered together, without requiring a complete collection.
- collection
- Often suggests items gathered or kept for a purpose.
- series
- Requires an ordered sequence rather than simply shared membership.