independent variable
noun
Mathematics.
a variable in a functional relation whose value determines the value or values of other variables, as x in the relation y = 3x2.
Compare dependent variable(def 1).
Statistics.
(in an experiment) a variable that is intentionally changed to observe its effect on the dependent variable.
Compare dependent variable(def 2), control variable(def 1).
Origin of independent variable
First recorded in 1850–55
Words nearby independent variable
independent axiom,
independent clause,
independent living,
independent school,
independent suspension,
independent variable,
independentista,
inderal,
indescribable,
indestructible,
indeterminable
British Dictionary definitions for independent variable
independent variable
noun
Also called: argument
a variable in a mathematical equation or statement whose value determines that of the dependent variable: in y = f(x), x is the independent variable
Also called: predictor statistics
the variable which an experimenter deliberately manipulates in order to observe its relationship with some other quantity, or which defines the distinct conditions in an experiment
See also experimental condition
Scientific definitions for independent variable
independent variable
[ ĭn′dĭ-pĕn′dənt ]
In mathematics, a variable whose value determines the value of other variables. For example, in the formula for the area of a circle, A = πr2, r is the independent variable, as its value determines the value of the area (A). Compare dependent variable.