independent variable

[ in-di-pen-duhnt vair-ee-uh-buhl ]

noun

1. Mathematics. a variable in a functional relation whose value determines the value or values of other variables, as x in the relation y = 3 x 2 . Compare dependent variable ( def 1 ).
2. Statistics. (in an experiment) a variable that is intentionally changed to observe its effect on the dependent variable. Compare dependent variable ( def 2 ), control variable ( def 1 ).

independent variable

noun

1. Also calledargument a variable in a mathematical equation or statement whose value determines that of the dependent variable: in y = f( x ), x is the independent variable
2. Also calledpredictor statistics the variable which an experimenter deliberately manipulates in order to observe its relationship with some other quantity, or which defines the distinct conditions in an experiment See also experimental condition

independent variable

/ ĭn′dĭ-pĕn′dənt /

1. In mathematics, a variable whose value determines the value of other variables. For example, in the formula for the area of a circle, A = π r ², r is the independent variable, as its value determines the value of the area ( A ).
2. Compare dependent variable

Word History and Origins

Origin of independent variable¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

Pains and pleasures give us what mathematicians call the 'independent variable.'

From Project Gutenberg

Let x be the independent variable, y the correlative variable which depends upon it.

From Project Gutenberg

In other words, mind cannot exist as an "independent variable" in the world; it must always accompany a human brain.

From Project Gutenberg

An ordinary differential equation involves only one independent variable, a partial differential equation involves more than one.

From Project Gutenberg