determinant

[ dih-tur-muh-nuhnt ]

noun

1. a determining agent or factor.
2. Mathematics. an algebraic expression of the sum of products of elements, each with an appropriate algebraic sign, usually written in a square array and used in the solution of systems of linear equations.
3. Also called antigenic determinant,. Immunology. any site on an antigen molecule at which an antibody can bind, the chemical structure of the site determining the specific combining antibody.
4. Genetics Archaic. a gene.

determinant

/ dɪˈtɜːmɪnənt /

adjective

1. serving to determine or affect

noun

1. a factor, circumstance, etc, that influences or determines
2. maths a square array of elements that represents the sum of certain products of these elements, used to solve simultaneous equations, in vector studies, etc Compare matrix

Other Words From

• nonde·termi·nant noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of determinant¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin dēterminant- (stem of dētermināns ), present participle of dētermināre; determine, -ant

Example Sentences

And as the Dodgers evaluate their plans for this winter, whether or not they retain him could be a key determinant to the entire offseason.

From Los Angeles Times

They said officials have taken steps to address food insecurity, housing instability, pollution, and other social determinants of health that help fuel disparities.

From Salon

And I’m convinced an actual driving test would be a better determinant of capability, which is why I asked the question — for the sake of conversation.

From Los Angeles Times

Petrol prices - a key determinant of economic sentiment in the US - have dropped 2.2%.

From BBC

These are known as "digital determinants of health".

From Salon

Related Words

• compelling
• convincing
• decisive
• indisputable
• irrefutable
• irrevocable
• precise
• unambiguous
• undeniable
• unmistakable