equivalent
See also équivalent
English
Alternative forms
- æquivalent (archaic)
Etymology
From Latin aequivalentem, accusative singular of aequivalēns, present active participle of aequivaleō (“I am equivalent, have equal power”).
Pronunciation
Adjective
equivalent (comparative more equivalent, superlative most equivalent)
- Similar or identical in value, meaning or effect; virtually equal.
- 2012 March 1, Henry Petroski, “Opening Doors”, American Scientist, volume 100, number 2, page 112-3:
- A doorknob of whatever roundish shape is effectively a continuum of levers, with the axis of the latching mechanism—known as the spindle—being the fulcrum about which the turning takes place. Applying a force tangential to the knob is essentially equivalent to applying one perpendicular to a radial line defining the lever.
- 2012 March 1, Henry Petroski, “Opening Doors”, American Scientist, volume 100, number 2, page 112-3:
- (mathematics) Of two sets, having a one-to-one relationship.
- (mathematics) Relating to the corresponding elements of an equivalence relation.
- (chemistry) Having the equal ability to combine.
- (cartography) Of a map, equal-area.
Usage notes
- In mathematics, this adjective can be used in phrases like "A and B are equivalent", "A is equivalent to B", and, less commonly, "A is equivalent with B".
Derived terms
Translations
similar or identical in value
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of two sets, having a one-to-one relationship
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relating to the corresponding elements of an equivalence relation
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equal-area — see equal-area
Noun
equivalent (plural equivalents)
- Anything that is virtually equal to something else, or has the same value, force, etc.
- Macaulay
- He owned that, if the Test Act were repealed, the Protestants were entitled to some equivalent.
- Macaulay
- (chemistry) An equivalent weight.
Translations
anything that is virtually equal to something else
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Verb
equivalent (third-person singular simple present equivalents, present participle equivalenting, simple past and past participle equivalented)
- (transitive) To make equivalent to; to equal.