factor analysis

American  

noun

Statistics.

1. the use of one of several methods for reducing a set of variables to a lesser number of new variables, each of which is a function of one or more of the original variables.

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factor analysis British  

noun

1. statistics any of several techniques for deriving from a number of given variables a smaller number of different, more useful, variables

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Etymology

Origin of factor analysis

First recorded in 1930–35

Example Sentences

All collected evidence has been sent for laboratory analysis, they added.

From BBC • Feb. 13, 2026

"Only laboratory analysis will confirm this, but we hope the core will be exceptional not only for the area but for the entire region -- probably 20,000, 25,000 or 30,000 years old."

From Barron's • Nov. 7, 2025

Beccuau told regional daily paper Ouest-France on Thursday that while the tests were being treated as a priority, laboratory analysis would still take time.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 26, 2025

The values are determined through laboratory analysis and nutrient databases based on standardized serving sizes regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

From Salon • Dec. 30, 2024

Then, the proof rests upon what the laboratory analysis of the finger nail stuff shows.

From The Winning Clue by Hay, James