Multiplier: meaning, definitions and examples

🔢

Add to dictionary

multiplier

[ ˈmʌltɪˌplaɪər ]

^{Context #1}

mathematical

A number by which another number is multiplied.

Synonyms

factor

Examples of usage

The multiplier of 5 in the expression 5 x 3 is 3.
In the equation 2 x 4 = 8, the multiplier is 2.

^{Context #2}

business

A factor or number by which a cost is multiplied to determine the selling price.

Synonyms

markup, profit margin

Examples of usage

The company uses a multiplier of 1.5 to calculate the retail price of their products.
The profit margin is determined by the multiplier applied to the production cost.

^{Context #3}

technology

A value that is used to determine the final size or scale of an image or design.

Synonyms

resizing value, scaling factor

Examples of usage

The graphic designer adjusted the multiplier to increase the size of the logo.
By changing the multiplier, the dimensions of the object can be altered.

Word origin

The word 'multiplier' originates from the Latin word 'multiplicare', which means 'to increase' or 'to make many'. The concept of multiplication has been used in mathematics for centuries, with the term 'multiplier' being commonly used to refer to a number that is multiplied by another number. In business, the term 'multiplier' is often used to calculate profits or pricing strategies. In technology, it is used to adjust the scale or size of images or designs. The versatility of the word 'multiplier' makes it an essential part of various fields and disciplines.