A lemma is a stepping stone in proving a larger theory, not the final result.

Math Concept

Often less important than theorems, but they clarify or lead to mathematical proofs.

Pre-Theorem

The lemma is what you'll use to find words in dictionaries or databases.

A lemma groups together all the different forms of a word.

In biology, a lemma organizes species or genera before full classification.

Biologists use lemmas temporarily until a proper name is assigned.