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noun Uncommon

equals

EEK-wuhlz

Equals (noun) means the "=" symbol, used to show that two things have the same value. Example: “Put an equals sign between the two totals.”

noun
1
The "=" symbol, used to show that two things have the same value.
"Put an equals sign between the two totals."

How to Use Equals

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe mathematical "=" sign.

Common pairings
equals sign
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Test yourself on “equals” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the Gap

Can you complete this real example?

Put an _____ sign between the two totals.

equal sign equality symbol

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “equals” mean?

The word “equals” means the "=" symbol, used to show that two things have the same value. In plain terms, the mathematical "=" sign.

How do you pronounce “equals”?

“Equals” is pronounced EEK-wuhlz (/ˈiːkwəlz/ in IPA).

How do you use “equals” in a sentence?

Here is “equals” used in a sentence: “Put an equals sign between the two totals.”

What part of speech is “equals”?

“Equals” is a noun.

Is “equals” a common word?

“Equals” is an uncommon word in modern English.

What is the equals sign used for in math?

The equals sign ("=") is used to show that two things have the same value, linking an expression on the left to an expression on the right that is mathematically identical to it, as in "2 + 2 = 4."

What is the difference between "equals" and "equal to"?

"Equals" functions as a noun naming the "=" symbol, as well as a verb form meaning "is the same as," while "equal to" is an adjective phrase describing a relationship between two things. For example, you might say "the equals sign" (noun) or "5 equals 5" (verb), compared with "5 is equal to 5" (adjective phrase).

Is "equals" singular or plural in math notation?

"Equals" refers to a single symbol, the "=" sign, even though the word ends in "s." That "s" is part of the verb form, as in "two plus two equals four," rather than indicating a plural.

Definitions: FreeDict original editorial