DICT.TW Dictionary Taiwan
Va·ri·a·ble, n.
1. That which is variable; that which varies, or is subject to change.
2. Math. A quantity which may increase or decrease; a quantity which admits of an infinite number of values in the same expression; a variable quantity; as, in the equation x² - y² = R², x and y are variables.
3. Naut. (a) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force. (b) pl. Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.
Independent variable Math., that one of two or more variables, connected with each other in any way whatever, to which changes are supposed to be given at will. Thus, in the equation x² - y² = R², if arbitrary changes are supposed to be given to x, then x is the independent variable, and y is called a function of x. There may be two or more independent variables in an equation or problem. Cf. Dependent variable, under Dependent.
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De·pend·ent a.
1. Hanging down; as, a dependent bough or leaf.
2. Relying on, or subject to, something else for support; not able to exist, or sustain itself, or to perform anything, without the will, power, or aid of something else; not self-sustaining; subordinate; -- often with on or upon; as, dependent on God; dependent upon friends. Opposite of independent. [Narrower terms: interdependent, mutualist, mutually beneficial; parasitic, parasitical, leechlike, bloodsucking; subordinate; underage; myrmecophilous; symbiotic] Also See: unfree.
England, long dependent and degraded, was again a power of the first rank. --Macaulay.
Dependent covenant or Dependent contract Law, one not binding until some connecting stipulation is performed.
Dependent variable Math., a varying quantity whose changes are arbitrary, but are regarded as produced by changes in another variable, which is called the independent variable.
In·de·pend·ent a.
1. Not dependent; free; not subject to control by others; not relying on others; not subordinate; as, few men are wholly independent.
A dry, but independent crust. --Cowper.
2. Affording a comfortable livelihood; as, an independent property.
3. Not subject to bias or influence; not obsequious; self-directing; as, a man of an independent mind.
4. Expressing or indicating the feeling of independence; free; easy; bold; unconstrained; as, an independent air or manner.
5. Separate from; exclusive; irrespective.
That obligation in general, under which we conceive ourselves bound to obey a law, independent of those resources which the law provides for its own enforcement. --R. P. Ward.
6. Eccl. Belonging or pertaining to, or holding to the doctrines or methods of, the Independents.
7. Math. Not dependent upon another quantity in respect to value or rate of variation; -- said of quantities or functions.
8. U. S. Politics Not bound by party; exercising a free choice in voting with either or any party.
Independent company Mil., one not incorporated in any regiment.
Independent seconds watch, a stop watch having a second hand driven by a separate set of wheels, springs, etc., for timing to a fraction of a second.
Independent variable. Math. See Dependent variable, under Dependent.
Syn: -- Free; uncontrolled; separate; uncoerced; self-reliant; bold; unconstrained; unrestricted.
dependent variable
n : (statistics) a variable in a logical or mathematical
expression whose value depends in the independent
variable; if f(x)=y, y is the dependent variable