---
tag: VPMCSXYPD1
kind: concept
name: History of the function concept
sources:
  - wikipedia: en:36595472@r1359939615
    locator: History of the function concept
    note: adopted
    mention: wikipedia://en/36595472
    sections: [Summary]
same_as:
  wikidata: Q5870804
  wikipedia: History of the function concept
inventory: [B4YQ1KW26P]
---

## Summary

The mathematical concept of a [[function|0EPAT51DXQ]] dates from the 17th century in connection with the development of calculus; for example, the slope $dy/dx$ of a [[graph|0JBJYT69ZV]] at a point was regarded as a function of the *x*-coordinate of the point. Functions were not explicitly considered in antiquity, but some precursors of the concept can perhaps be seen in the work of medieval philosophers and mathematicians such as Oresme.