adjective
linear
Describing a mathematical relationship in which variables occur only to the first power and are not multiplied together.
The equation y = 3x + 2 represents a linear relationship.
Etymology
The Latin ancestor means of a line. The mathematical term reflects the straight-line behavior of a first-degree relationship, extended to the corresponding algebraic structure.
More examples
- In this linear equation, neither variable is squared.
- The linear cost model adds $5 for each additional hour.
- The equation x + y = 6 is linear, but xy = 6 is not.
Forms
linear
linearity noun — The property of following a first-degree relationship.
Similar words
- first-degree
- Specifies that an equation or polynomial has degree one.
- proportional
- Requires a constant ratio, unlike a general linear relationship.