characteristic curve

noun

: the graphic curve or the graph picturing it that shows the relation between two variables
a characteristic curve plotting the variations of grid potential and plate current in the normal operation of a vacuum tube
the patient's fever chart showed the characteristic curve for the disease
:
a
: the curve indicating the variation of density in a developed photographic image that results from the increase of exposure expressed logarithmically

called also H and D curve, sensitometric curve

b
: a curve showing the relationship between frequency and recording intensity or frequency and reproducing intensity in sound recording

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of characteristic curve was in 1881

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near characteristic curve

Cite this Entry

“Characteristic curve.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/characteristic%20curve. Accessed 18 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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