Meaning A pivot is an element on the left-hand side of a matrix for solving a system of linear equations using the Gaussian elimination that you want the elements above and below to be zero.
Example The green 3 is a pivot. The aim is to make yellow numbers into zero.
Similar words To pivot /'pɪvət/ verb to make an element above or below a leading one into a zero Pivoting /'pɪvətɪŋ/ noun a process of making an element above or below a leading one into zero
Etymology Middle French, French pivot, hinge (1338; 1174–78 in figurative use in the name of a dance), vertical main root of a fruit tree (1651), officer around whom troops wheel (1752)
