random variable
noun
: a variable that is itself a function of the result of a statistical experiment in which each outcome has a definite probability of occurrence
called also variate
Examples of random variable in a Sentence
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Or, mathematically, what is the measure associated with that random variable?
—
Steven Strogatz,
Quanta Magazine,
12 June 2025
While there are many modern techniques for random number and random variable generation, the agentic AI space may now be at a perfect time to visit Monte Carlo.
—
Adrian Bridgwater,
Forbes,
22 Feb. 2025
Planetary formation involves a lot of random variables that affect how a planet forms and evolves over time.
—
Phil Plait,
Scientific American,
7 Feb. 2024
The number also appears in bell curves, which are found in statistics about random variables that add up.
—
Kat Friedrich,
Popular Mechanics,
16 Mar. 2023
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Steven Strogatz,
Quanta Magazine,
12 June 2025
While there are many modern techniques for random number and random variable generation, the agentic AI space may now be at a perfect time to visit Monte Carlo.
—
Adrian Bridgwater,
Forbes,
22 Feb. 2025
Planetary formation involves a lot of random variables that affect how a planet forms and evolves over time.
—
Phil Plait,
Scientific American,
7 Feb. 2024
The number also appears in bell curves, which are found in statistics about random variables that add up.
—
Kat Friedrich,
Popular Mechanics,
16 Mar. 2023
Cite this Entry
“Random variable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/random%20variable. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.
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