Definition:Infinitesimal

Definition
An infinitesimal is a mathematical object $\delta$ resembling a (real) number such that:
 * $(1): \quad \delta > 0$
 * $(2): \quad \forall x \in \R_{>0}: \delta < x$

That is, an infinitesimal is a (strictly) positive real number which is smaller than every other (strictly) positive real number.

Historical Note
The concept of an infinitesimal was initially proposed by when inventing calculus.

The logical inconsistencies of this approach, famously criticised by, caused it to be abandoned.

However, the concept has been revived in recent years with the invention of non-standard analysis.