noun
Uncommon
coefficient
koh-ih-FIH-shuhnt
Coefficient (noun) means a number placed in front of a variable that multiplies it, in an algebraic expression. Example: “In 5x + 2, the coefficient of x is 5.”
noun
1
A number placed in front of a variable that multiplies it, in an algebraic expression.
"In 5x + 2, the coefficient of x is 5."
"She adjusted the coefficient to fit the data better."
2
A number that measures a particular physical property or characteristic.
"The coefficient of friction determines how easily the block slides."
How to use coefficient
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA number that multiplies or measures something, often used in maths, physics, and statistics.
Common pairings
coefficient of friction
correlation coefficient
a numerical coefficient
Vocabulary Flow
Build your vocabulary from words like coefficient.
Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.
Start vocabulary practice
Word forms
- Plural
- coefficients
- Comparative
- more coefficient
- Superlative
- most coefficient
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
In 5x + 2, the _____ of x is 5.
Etymology
From French coefficient, coined by the French mathematician François Viète from co- ("together") + efficient.
Rhymes for coefficient
See all rhymes for coefficient →Frequently asked questions
What does “coefficient” mean?
The word “coefficient” means a number placed in front of a variable that multiplies it, in an algebraic expression. In plain terms, a number that multiplies or measures something, often used in maths, physics, and statistics.
How do you pronounce “coefficient”?
“Coefficient” is pronounced koh-ih-FIH-shuhnt (/ˌkoʊ.ɪˈfɪʃənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “coefficient” in a sentence?
Here is “coefficient” used in a sentence: “She adjusted the coefficient to fit the data better.”
What part of speech is “coefficient”?
“Coefficient” is a noun.
Where does the word “coefficient” come from?
The word “coefficient” comes from French. From French coefficient, coined by the French mathematician François Viète from co- ("together") + efficient.
Is “coefficient” a common word?
“Coefficient” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “coefficient” have?
“Coefficient” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a number placed in front of a variable that multiplies it, in an algebraic expression.
