equivalent

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See also équivalent

Contents

English [edit]

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Alternative forms [edit]

Etymology [edit]

From Latin aequivalentem, accusative singular of aequivalēns, present active participle of aequivaleō (I am equivalent, have equal power).

Pronunciation [edit]

  • (file)
  • (US) IPA: /iːˈkwɪvælənt/
  • (UK) IPA: /ɪːˈkwɪvælənt/

Adjective [edit]

equivalent (comparative more equivalent, superlative most equivalent)

  1. Similar or identical in value, meaning or effect; virtually equal.
    • 2012 March 1, Henry Petroski, “Opening Doors”, American Scientist, volume 100, number 2, page 112-3: 
      A doorknob of whatever roundish shape is effectively a continuum of levers, with the axis of the latching mechanism—known as the spindle—being the fulcrum about which the turning takes place. Applying a force tangential to the knob is essentially equivalent to applying one perpendicular to a radial line defining the lever.
  2. (mathematics) Of two sets, having a one-to-one relationship.
  3. (mathematics) Relating to the corresponding elements of an equivalence relation.
  4. (chemistry) Having the equal ability to combine.
  5. (cartography) Of a map, equal-area.

Usage notes [edit]

  • In mathematics, this adjective can be used in phrases like "A and B are equivalent", "A is equivalent to B", and, less commonly, "A is equivalent with B".

Derived terms [edit]

Translations [edit]

Noun [edit]

equivalent (plural equivalents)

  1. Anything that is virtually equal to something else, or has the same value, force, etc.
    • Macaulay
      He owned that, if the Test Act were repealed, the Protestants were entitled to some equivalent.
  2. (chemistry) An equivalent weight.

Translations [edit]

Verb [edit]

equivalent (third-person singular simple present equivalents, present participle equivalenting, simple past and past participle equivalented)

  1. (transitive) To make equivalent to; to equal.

Dutch [edit]

Pronunciation [edit]

Adjective [edit]

equivalent (not comparable)

  1. equivalent