known quantity
Americannoun
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Mathematics. a quantity whose value is given: in algebra, frequently represented by a letter from the first part of the alphabet, as a, b, or c.
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any factor, circumstance, etc., that is already accepted or familiar.
Her honesty is a known quantity.
Etymology
Origin of known quantity
First recorded in 1975–80
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.
As such, Warsh is a known quantity in upper-echelon social, political, and economic circles.
From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026
Now a known quantity, Saints reduced their kicking to Caluori to deal with the breakout star's freakish aerial ability, while the teenager struggled to get the ball in hand to show his running power.
From BBC • Oct. 27, 2025
He is, in other words, a known quantity.
From Slate • Jan. 9, 2025
Horner accepted the concern but noted the Shanghai circuit is a known quantity, hosting races since 2004.
From Seattle Times • Apr. 19, 2024
He had a good head for algebra, but a man cannot work out a problem easily with only one known quantity.
From 'Doc.' Gordon by Merrill, Frank T. (Frank Thayer)
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.
