scalar

American  

[skey-ler] / ˈskeɪ lər /

adjective

1. representable by position on a scale or line; having only magnitude.

   a scalar variable.

2. of, relating to, or utilizing a scalar.

3. ladderlike in arrangement or organization; graduated.

   a scalar structure for promoting personnel.

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noun

1. Mathematics, Physics. a quantity possessing only magnitude.

scalar British  

/ ˈskeɪlə /

noun

1. a quantity, such as time or temperature, that has magnitude but not direction Compare vector tensor pseudoscalar pseudovector

2. maths an element of a field associated with a vector space

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adjective

1. having magnitude but not direction

scalar Scientific  

/ skā′lər /

1. A quantity, such as mass, length, or speed, whose only property is magnitude; a number.

2. Compare vector

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Etymology

Origin of scalar

First recorded in 1650–60, scalar is from the Latin word scālāris of a ladder. See scale ³, -ar ¹

Example Sentences

"Basically, this collapse produces a lot of particles, including the right-handed neutrinos, the scalar bosons, and the gauge boson, like a shower," study co-author Hamada explains.

From Science Daily

A sentient, integrated planetary AI could bridge the scalar divide, aligning humanity’s actions with planetary needs, coordinating resources, and offering a level of problem-solving agility previously unimaginable.

From Salon

To calculate the angle between two vectors, you multiply them together using the scalar product and then divide by the two vector lengths.

From Scientific American

The short third movement — featuring scalar, zigzagging, independent parts for flute, vibraphone and strings — heralded a brief but hard-won freedom.

From New York Times

As we descended through dimly lit passageways, she unspooled her practiced patter about Bovis-scale energy measurements, levitating cells, scalar waves and ancient “proto-runic” symbols etched on a sandstone slab.

From New York Times