An Etymological Dictionary of Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. An orderly array of numbers, algebraic symbols, or mathematical
   functions, especially when such arrays are added and multiplied according to certain rule; e.g. → Jordan matrix.
   

2. The fine grained material found in between the → chondrules, fragments and metal grains found inside → stony meteorites.

Etymology (EN): From O.Fr. matrice, from L. matrix “female animal kept for breeding,” in L.L. “womb, source, origin,” from mater, → mother.

Etymology (PE): Mâtris, loan from Fr., as above.