equation

noun

Synonyms of equationnext
1
a
: the act or process of equating
b(1)
: an element affecting a process : factor
(2)
: a complex of variable factors
c
: a state of being equated
specifically : a state of close association or identification
To bring governmental enterprises and payment for them into immediate equation … —R. G. Tugwell
2
a
: a usually formal statement of the equality or equivalence of mathematical or logical expressions
b
: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols

Examples of equation in a Sentence

the equation of material wealth with happiness
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Machines, too, can type emails, solve equations and spit out data as directed. — Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026 Transportation costs and freight optimization also need to be part of that equation, starting with greater cost transparency and understanding freight separately from the cost of goods. — Arthur Zaczkiewicz, Footwear News, 23 Oct. 2026 Midnight Mimosa changes that equation because the infection can arrive with the phone itself. — Kurt Knutsson, FOXNews.com, 23 Oct. 2026 The labor equation Cathy also pointed to the people who run and staff the restaurants. — Heather Occhino, Fortune, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for equation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of equation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Equation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/equation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

Kids Definition

equation

noun
1
: the act or process of equating : the state of being equated
2
a
: a statement of the equality of two mathematical expressions
b
: an expression involving chemical symbols for a chemical reaction

Medical Definition

equation

noun
equa·​tion
i-ˈkwā-zhən also -shən
: an expression representing a chemical reaction quantitatively by means of chemical symbols

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