Definition
A form of deductive reasoning consisting of a major premise, a minor premise, and a conclusion that logically follows from both. If the premises are true, the conclusion must be true.
Example Usage
The classic syllogism states: 'All men are mortal; Socrates is a man; therefore, Socrates is mortal.'
Origin
From Greek syllogismos, meaning conclusion or inference, from syllogizesthai (to reckon together).
Fun Fact
Syllogisms have been central to logic and philosophy since Aristotle formalized them in the 4th century BCE, forming the backbone of classical formal logic.
Source: Definition backfill (hailey)
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