predictor
Americannoun
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a person or thing that predicts.
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Mathematics. a formula for determining additional values or derivatives of a function from the relationship of its given values.
noun
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a person or thing that predicts
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an instrument, used in conjunction with an anti-aircraft gun, that determines the speed, distance, height, and direction of hostile aircraft
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statistics a more modern term for independent variable
Etymology
Origin of predictor
From the Medieval Latin word praedictor, dating back to 1645–55. See predict, -tor
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.
The reason recent increases in the two consumer-sentiment indexes aren’t unambiguously good news is that a better predictor of recessions is the spread between the two indicators.
From MarketWatch
Because fewer people turn out for special elections, they’re considered an early predictor of partisan enthusiasm heading into regularly scheduled elections.
From Salon
In the midst of award season, the Writers Guild Awards are generally considered a predictor for which films might be Academy Award contenders.
From Los Angeles Times
"That means American films frequently rule the roost," noted Variety Magazine, making the ceremony a better predictor for the Oscars, but reducing chances for local productions to shine outside the outstanding British film category.
From Barron's
The Fed views the core rate as the best predictor of future inflation.
From MarketWatch
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.
