equation

noun

equa·​tion i-ˈkwā-zhən 

 also  -shən

1

a

: the act or process of equating

b(1)

: an element affecting a process : factor

(2)

: a complex of variable factors

c

: a state of being equated

specifically : a state of close association or identification

bring governmental enterprises and payment for them into immediate equation

—R. G. Tugwell

2

a

: a usually formal statement of the equality or equivalence of mathematical or logical expressions

b

: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols

Examples of equation in a Sentence

the equation of material wealth with happiness

Recent Examples on the Web

Both Rihanna and Eminem have had public stints in abusive relationships – albeit on different sides of the equation – so their real-life experiences infused the song’s exploration of the IPV cycle with stunning gravitas. —Kyle Denis, Billboard, 19 Nov. 2024

If surf spots aren't part of the equation, then expect Teiefitu to beeline to Le Manoa for lunch or dinner. —Megan Spurrell, Condé Nast Traveler, 13 Nov. 2024

Even with Estevez and Hoffman as part of the equation, the Phillies' bullpen struggled with consistency. —Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 7 Nov. 2024

Between the lines: Geography is only part of the equation here — race plays a role, too. —Alex Fitzpatrick, Axios, 29 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Phrases Containing equation

• characteristic equation
• cubic equation
• differential equation
• Diophantine equation
• enter (into) the equation
• equation of time
• linear equation
• parametric equation
• partial differential equation
• personal equation
• quadratic equation
• Schrödinger equation
• simple equation
• wave equation

Kids Definition

equation

noun

equa·​tion i-ˈkwā-zhən 

 also  -shən

1

: the act or process of equating : the state of being equated

2

a

: a statement of the equality of two mathematical expressions

b

: an expression involving chemical symbols for a chemical reaction

Medical Definition

equation

noun

equa·​tion

i-ˈkwā-zhən also -shən

: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols