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Definition of "coefficient" [co•ef•fi•cient]

  • A number or symbol multiplied with a variable or an unknown quantity in an algebraic term, as 4 in the term 4x, or x in the term x(a + b). (noun)
  • A numerical measure of a physical or chemical property that is constant for a system under specified conditions such as the coefficient of friction. (noun)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "coefficient" in a sentence
  • "He had them flip tires and push sleds, varying the resistance based on what he called the coefficient of friction."
  • "The notion of nobility coefficient is suspended whenever Russia is involved."
  • "The variation in the nonlinear damping coefficient is what cases the the shot string to elongate."