characteristic function

American  

noun

Mathematics.

1. a function defined on a given set, having value 1 for every element of the set and value 0 for every element not contained in the set.

2. characteristic polynomial.

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characteristic function British  

noun

1. maths a function that assigns the value 1 to the members of a given set and the value 0 to its nonmembers

2. statistics a function derived from the probability distribution function that enables the distribution of the sum of given random variables to be analysed

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Etymology

Origin of characteristic function

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

In the granting of supplies, the characteristic function of the lower chamber, the authority of the Governor was now substituted for that of Parliament.

From Lord Milner's Work in South Africa From its Commencement in 1897 to the Peace of Vereeniging in 1902 by Worsfold, W. Basil (William Basil)

Though in some late texts he is said to have evolved the world from himself, his characteristic function is not to create but, like Vishnu, to save and like Vishnu he holds a lotus.

From Hinduism and Buddhism, An Historical Sketch, Vol. 2 by Eliot, Charles, Sir

Thirdly, The most characteristic function of the poetical faculty is analytical; it is essentially a perception, a power of discovery, analysis, and discrimination.

From A Letter on Shakspere's Authorship of The Two Noble Kinsmen and on the characteristics of Shakspere's style and the secret of his supremacy by Spalding, William

The suspensive tone which the voice assumes at the end of the interrogation is indicative of incompleteness of thought; and indication of incompleteness is the characteristic function of all rising intervals.

From The Ontario Readers: The High School Reader, 1886 by Ontario. Ministry of Education

Chromium when alloyed with steel, has the characteristic function of opposing the disintegration and reconstruction of cementite.

From The Working of Steel Annealing, Heat Treating and Hardening of Carbon and Alloy Steel by Colvin, Fred H. (Fred Herbert)