matrix-n; 8 Senses

Sense Number 1: a mathematical rectangular array of quantities manipulated according to certain rules

Commentary: MATRIX[+entity][+symbolic][+mathematical][+array][+rectangular][+quantities]

Examples:
Our math instructor is teaching us matrix algebra.
Two matrices may be added or multiplied together.
Every matrix corresponds exactly to one linear transformation.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 2: fine-grained rock strata containing embedded fossils or minerals

Commentary: MATRIX[+structure][+physical][+geological][+rock][+fine_grained][+embedded][+elements]

Examples:
The geologists found a matrix rich in trilobite fossils.
This matrix is difficult to extract the gem ore from.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 3

Sense Number 3: management structure with two chains of command for each person

Commentary: MATRIX[+structure][+social][+management][+command][+chain][+dual]

Examples:
John's company recently adopted a matrix organization for management.
With the matrix arrangement, Mary reports both to a VP of marketing and a Product Manager.

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 3b

Sense Number 4: intracellular substance

Commentary: MATRIX[+entity][+physical][+substance][+organic][+intracellular]

Examples:
This toxin actually breaks down the matrix between the cells of the body.
The matrix is the intracellular substance throughout an organism.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 5

Sense Number 5: formative tissue at base of a fingernail

Commentary: MATRIX[+entity][+physical][+organic][+tissue][+formative][+fingernail]

Examples:
The injury to John's finger damaged the matrix of his thumbnail.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 6

Sense Number 6: a surrounding context in which something develops

Commentary: MATRIX[+environment][+context][+developmental]

Examples:
Five choices became the matrix of human life.
Freedom of expression is the matrix, the indispensable condition, of nearly every form of freedom.(Benjamin N. Cardozo)

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 4

Sense Number 7: an inscribed or engraved mold

Commentary: MATRIX[+entity][+physical][+artifact][+mold][+inscribed]

Examples:
They used a matrix for casting typefaces
These stereotypes were created from a matrix.

Mappings:
WordNet 3.0 Sense Numbers: 1

Sense Number 8: a 2D arrangement of things into rows and columns

Commentary: MATRIX[+structure][+physical][+arrangement][+2D][+elements]
NOTE: resembles Sense 1, but is a physical layout of things, not a mathematical array.

Examples:
The panel contained a matrix of diodes and transistors.
The artist is known for his large abstract canvases with brightly colored matrices.

Mappings:
WordNet 0.0 Sense Numbers: 5b