equation

noun

equa·​tion i-ˈkwā-zhən How to pronounce equation (audio)
 also  -shən
Synonyms of equationnext
1
a
: the act or process of equating
b(1)
: an element affecting a process : factor
(2)
: a complex of variable factors
c
: a state of being equated
specifically : a state of close association or identification
bring governmental enterprises and payment for them into immediate equation —R. G. Tugwell
2
a
: a usually formal statement of the equality or equivalence of mathematical or logical expressions
b
: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols

Examples of equation in a Sentence

the equation of material wealth with happiness
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The comfortable portion of the equation is critical for the Vanquish. —Dan Carney, Popular Science, 7 Nov. 2024 Proposition 486 asks voters to implement a new permanent spending equation. —Sasha Hupka, The Arizona Republic, 5 Nov. 2024 These depictions of particles’ possible collisions and trajectories translate into complicated equations. —Charlie Wood, WIRED, 3 Nov. 2024 Instead of putting the grind as a nonnegotiable in your dream life, why not remove that overexertion from the equation and see how lovely your life can pan out? —Meghan Rose, Glamour, 1 Nov. 2024 See all Example Sentences for equation 

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of equation was in the 14th century

Phrases Containing equation

Dictionary Entries Near equation

equate with/and

equation

equational

See More Nearby Entries 

Cite this Entry

“Equation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equation. Accessed 22 Nov. 2024.

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Kids Definition

equation

noun
equa·​tion i-ˈkwā-zhən How to pronounce equation (audio)
 also  -shən
1
: the act or process of equating : the state of being equated
2
a
: a statement of the equality of two mathematical expressions
b
: an expression involving chemical symbols for a chemical reaction

Medical Definition

equation

noun
equa·​tion
i-ˈkwā-zhən also -shən
: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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