X factor

noun

: a circumstance, quality, or person that has a strong but unpredictable influence

Examples of X factor in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The X factor Getty Images Elon Musk’s X is starting its push into financial services. Michele Luhn, CNBC, 29 Jan. 2025 Continue reading here Saint Thomas pushes to overcome mental health challenges to become X factor for USC UCLA-USC box score Big Ten standings AP top 25 rankings Enjoying this newsletter? Houston Mitchell, Los Angeles Times, 28 Jan. 2025 Jalen Carter could single-handedly end the Commanders’ wild ride, but Daniels’ mobility is the X factor. Baltimore Sun Staff, Baltimore Sun, 24 Jan. 2025 The X factors in the revival, Rose says, will be altogether different ones: infrastructure, drought, climate change and our politics. Patt Morrison, Los Angeles Times, 16 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for X factor 

Word History

First Known Use

1930, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of X factor was in 1930

Dictionary Entries Near X factor

Cite this Entry

“X factor.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/X%20factor. Accessed 7 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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