multiplier

American  

[muhl-tuh-plahy-er] / ˈmʌl təˌplaɪ ər /

noun

1. a person or thing that multiplies.

2. Arithmetic. a number by which another is multiplied.

3. Physics. a device for intensifying some effect.

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multiplier British  

/ ˈmʌltɪˌplaɪə /

noun

1. a person or thing that multiplies

2. the number by which another number, the multiplicand, is multiplied See also multiplicand

3. physics any device or instrument, such as a photomultiplier, for increasing an effect

4. economics

   1. the ratio of the total change in income (resulting from successive rounds of spending) to an initial autonomous change in expenditure

   2. ( as modifier )

      multiplier effects

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multiplier Scientific  

/ mŭl′tə-plī′ər /

1. The number by which another number is multiplied.

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Etymology

Origin of multiplier

late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; see origin at multiply ¹, -er ¹

Example Sentences

There can be a multiplier effect from supporters who gave only $5 but then displayed a yard sign or bumper sticker and talked to neighbors about their candidate.

From MarketWatch • Jun. 3, 2026

This time around, in addition to its earlier playbook, Iran has a legion of attack drones which are serving as a significant force multiplier.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 5, 2026

The company’s digital intelligence “is a true force multiplier that will support durable value with profitable growth, higher margins, stronger cash generation, and increased returns for our stockholders.”

From Barron's • Feb. 12, 2026

Online sportsbooks are now poised to be to modern gambling what drones are to warfare — a remarkable, unchecked multiplier of pain and gain.

From Salon • Feb. 8, 2026

Jack’s straight-backed, brown-ink copperplate told her to assume a multiplier of fifty.

From "Atonement" by Ian McEwan