determinant

[dih-tur-muh-nuhnt]

noun

1. a determining agent or factor.

2. Mathematics.,  an algebraic expression of the sum of products of elements, each with an appropriate algebraic sign, usually written in a square array and used in the solution of systems of linear equations.

3. Also called antigenic determinant,. Also called epitope. Immunology.,  any site on an antigen molecule at which an antibody can bind, the chemical structure of the site determining the specific combining antibody.

4. Genetics Archaic.,  a gene.

determinant

/ dɪˈtɜːmɪnənt /

adjective

1. serving to determine or affect

noun

1. a factor, circumstance, etc, that influences or determines

2. maths a square array of elements that represents the sum of certain products of these elements, used to solve simultaneous equations, in vector studies, etc Compare matrix

Other Word Forms

• nondeterminant noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of determinant¹

First recorded in 1600–10; from Latin dēterminant- (stem of dētermināns ), present participle of dētermināre; determine, -ant

Example Sentences

The low percentage of adults reading with kids “is concerning given that regular reading during childhood is a strong determinant of reading ability and engagement later in life,” the study read.

From Los Angeles Times

“Blue” states often invest more in these social determinants of health, which ultimately yield better health outcomes.

From Salon

“Was the person assessed for social determinants of health?” said Kuhn.

From Los Angeles Times

But it’s silent on what experts call the “social determinants of disease,” which are heavily related to economics.

From Los Angeles Times

Some have found evidence of environmental factors, chiefly experienced by women in pregnancy, though some question whether any such factors can be primary determinants of ASD.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aim 
• cause 
• consideration 
• emotion 
• feeling 
• idea 
• impulse 
• influence 
• intent 
• intention 
• motivation 
• passion 
• rationale