linear equation

noun

, Mathematics.

1. a first-order equation involving two variables: its graph is a straight line in the Cartesian coordinate system.
2. any equation such that the sum of two solutions is a solution, and a constant multiple of a solution is a solution.

linear equation

noun

1. a polynomial equation of the first degree, such as x + y = 7

linear equation

1. An algebraic equation, such as y = 4 x + 3, in which the variables are of the first degree (that is, raised only to the first power). The graph of such an equation is a straight line.

Word History and Origins

Origin of linear equation¹

First recorded in 1810–20

Example Sentences

Some computations could require a computer to solve a half-billion linear equations, he says.

From Science Magazine

“I’m supposed to go into linear equations next fall. How’s that going to work?” said Parks.

From Los Angeles Times

Emphasizing problem-based learning, the course covers topics students need in sophomore engineering classes, including linear equations, quadratic equations, 2-D vectors and complex numbers.

From Scientific American

A linear equation like 4x – 12 = 0 is extremely simple to solve, and such problems didn’t entertain algebraists for very long.

From Literature

It covers linear equations, functions, exponential and logarithmic expressions and other topics.

From Washington Post