multiplier

[muhl-tuh-plahy-er]

noun

1. a person or thing that multiplies.

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

3. Physics.,  a device for intensifying some effect.

multiplier

/ 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

multiplier

1. The number by which another number is multiplied.

Word History and Origins

Origin of multiplier¹

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

Example Sentences

Manufacturing remains the key to productivity growth, packs a far higher multiplier effect on local economies than retail, trade or finance and generally pays far higher wages.

From Los Angeles Times

"Losing these good quality jobs would have a big impact in terms of wages for workers and also a knock-on effect in terms of the multiplier on the local economy."

From BBC

Economists say the work that undocumented immigrants do has a multiplier effect.

From Los Angeles Times

They earnestly believe that the actuarial tables will act as a force multiplier for their side.

From Salon

They know that climate change is a threat multiplier and catalyst for conflict.

From Salon