Definition of equivalent

< equivalency

equivalent weight >

e·quiv·a·lent    (-kwv-lnt) KEY 

ADJECTIVE:

1. 1. Equal, as in value, force, or meaning.
   2. Having similar or identical effects.
2. Being essentially equal, all things considered: a wish that was equivalent to a command.
3. Mathematics
   1. Capable of being put into a one-to-one relationship. Used of two sets.
   2. Having virtually identical or corresponding parts.
   3. Of or relating to corresponding elements under an equivalence relation.
4. Chemistry Having the same ability to combine.
5. Logic Having equivalence: equivalent propositions.

NOUN:

1. Something that is essentially equal to another: "Prejudicing vital foreign policy considerations in order to rescue individuals finds its domestic equivalent in the inflated awards paid to ... accident and malpractice victims" (Moorhead Kennedy).
2. Chemistry Equivalent weight.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Middle English, from Late Latin aequivalns, aequivalent- present participle of aequivalre, to have equal force : Latin aequi-, equi- + Latin valre, to be strong; see wal- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
e·quiva·lent·ly(Adverb)