determinant
Americannoun
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a determining agent or factor.
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Mathematics. an algebraic expression of the sum of products of elements, each with an appropriate algebraic sign, usually written in a square array and used in the solution of systems of linear equations.
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Also called antigenic determinant,. Also called epitope. Immunology. any site on an antigen molecule at which an antibody can bind, the chemical structure of the site determining the specific combining antibody.
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Genetics Archaic. a gene.
adjective
noun
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a factor, circumstance, etc, that influences or determines
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maths a square array of elements that represents the sum of certain products of these elements, used to solve simultaneous equations, in vector studies, etc Compare matrix
Other Word Forms
- nondeterminant noun
Etymology
Origin of determinant
First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin dēterminant- (stem of dētermināns ), present participle of dētermināre; determine, -ant
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
If regulation meaningfully affects output and inflation, it belongs alongside fiscal and monetary policy as a central determinant of economic performance.
From Barron's
Such a move might generate fears of future inflation and push up long-term interest rates, an important determinant of mortgage costs and businesses’ borrowing expenses, Musalem said.
“There are statewide and local policies that influence food, nutrition and social determinants of health for individuals,” said Velazquez.
From Los Angeles Times
Productivity, a crucial determinant of the economy’s long-term health, increased at its fastest pace in two years in the third quarter.
The most important determinant of housing affordability is also the least glamorous.
From Barron's
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
