Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
The Pythagorean Theorem is a mathematical principle that relates the lengths of the sides in a right triangle. It states that the square of the hypotenuse (the side opposite the right angle) is equal to the sum of the squares of the other two sides.
Related terms
Right Triangle: A triangle that has one angle measuring 90 degrees.
Hypotenuse: The longest side in a right triangle, which is opposite to the right angle.
Legs: The two shorter sides in a right triangle that are adjacent to the right angle.