direct variation

noun

1
: mathematical relationship between two variables that can be expressed by an equation in which one variable is equal to a constant times the other
2
: an equation or function expressing direct variation compare inverse variation

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1949, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of direct variation was circa 1949

Dictionary Entries Near direct variation

Cite this Entry

“Direct variation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/direct%20variation. Accessed 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

direct variation

noun
1
: mathematical relationship between two variables which can be expressed by an equation in which one variable is equal to a constant times the other
2
: an equation or function expressing direct variation compare inverse variation sense 2
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!