matrix /(mā"trĭks)/

pl. Matrices ((măt"rĭ*sēz))

1. The womb. (Anat.)

   All that openeth the matrix is mine.

2. That which gives form or origin to anything (Mech.)
3. The lifeless portion of tissue, either animal or vegetable, situated between the cells; the intercellular substance. (Biol.)
4. A rectangular arrangement of symbols in rows and columns. The symbols may express quantities or operations. (Math.)