matrix
noun uk/ˈmeɪ.trɪks/ us/ˈmeɪ.trɪks/ matrices /-trɪ.siːz/ matrixes
(DEVELOPMENT)
[ C ] formal（事物成长发展的）条件，环境
the set of conditions that provides a system in which something grows or develops
Europe is remaking itself politically within the matrix of the European Community. 欧洲将在欧共体的环境下重塑政治版图。
(MATHEMATICS)
[ C ] mathematics specialized（数学上的）矩阵
a group of numbers or other symbols arranged in a rectangle that can be used together as a single unit to solve particular mathematical problems
(SUBSTANCE)
[ C or U ] specialized脉石;母岩;基岩
a substance in which other things are fixed, buried, etc.
The fossils lie embedded in a matrix of shale and sandstone. 化石牢牢嵌在页岩与砂岩形成的脉石中。