predictor

[pri-dik-ter]

noun

1. a person or thing that predicts.

2. Mathematics.,  a formula for determining additional values or derivatives of a function from the relationship of its given values.

predictor

/ prɪˈdɪktə /

noun

1. a person or thing that predicts

2. an instrument, used in conjunction with an anti-aircraft gun, that determines the speed, distance, height, and direction of hostile aircraft

3. statistics a more modern term for independent variable

Word History and Origins

Origin of predictor¹

From the Medieval Latin word praedictor, dating back to 1645–55. See predict, -tor

Example Sentences

“Resilience is the No. 1 predictor of success,” she said.

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“Violence that is rooted in gendered issues is a huge predictor of — and possibly the biggest predictor, in some studies — of trajectories that lead to mass violence,” Miller-Idriss told The 19th.

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We know that education is the number one predictor of economic mobility, and that when we support students and teachers, they do better.

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“Decades of research confirmed that education is one of the strongest predictors of long-term health,” Ferrer said.

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The effects also compounded: The worse the weather, the more forest density served as a predictor for fire severity.

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Related Words

• prognosticator 
• seer 
• witch