Definition of vector

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< Veblen, Thorstein Bunde

vector boson >

vec·tor    (vktr) KEY 

NOUN:

1. Mathematics
   1. A quantity, such as velocity, completely specified by a magnitude and a direction.
   2. A one-dimensional array.
   3. An element of a vector space.
2. Pathology An organism, such as a mosquito or tick, that carries disease-causing microorganisms from one host to another.
3. Genetics A bacteriophage, plasmid, or other agent that transfers genetic material from one cell to another.
4. A force or influence.
5. A course or direction, as of an airplane.

TRANSITIVE VERB:
vec·tored, vec·tor·ing, vec·tors

To guide (a pilot or aircraft, for example) by means of radio communication according to vectors.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Latin, carrier, from vehere, vect-, to carry; see wegh- in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
vec·tori·al  (vk-tôr-l, -tr-) KEY (Adjective)