multiplier

[ muhl-tuh-plahy-er ]

noun

1. a person or thing that multiplies.
2. Arithmetic. a number by which another is multiplied. multiply.
3. Physics. a device for intensifying some effect.

multiplier

/ ˈmʌltɪˌplaɪə /

noun

1. a person or thing that multiplies
2. the number by which another number, the multiplicand, is multiplied See also multiplicand
3. physics any device or instrument, such as a photomultiplier, for increasing an effect
4. economics
   1. the ratio of the total change in income (resulting from successive rounds of spending) to an initial autonomous change in expenditure
   2. ( as modifier )

      multiplier effects

multiplier

/ mŭl′tə-plī′ər /

1. The number by which another number is multiplied.

Word History and Origins

Origin of multiplier¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1425–75; multiply ¹, -er ¹

Example Sentences

In addition, Mega Millions will add a built-in multiplier to every ticket, automatically improving non-jackpot wins by as much as 10 times.

From Los Angeles Times

One commentator described climate change as a “chaos multiplier”, because it exacerbates existing tensions and entrenches conflict in fragile states like this.

From BBC

There’s an economic concept called “the multiplier effect,” which describes how the effect of spending is greater than the original money spent.

From Los Angeles Times

In 2023, the WHO’s World Malaria Report included a chapter on the link between malaria and climate change for the first time, highlighting its significance as a potential risk multiplier.

From Seattle Times

“In general, housing often functions as a trigger or force multiplier in a recession in California,” said G.U.

From Los Angeles Times