absolute value

noun

1
: a nonnegative number equal in numerical value to a given real number
2
: the positive square root of the sum of the squares of the real and imaginary parts of a complex number

Examples of absolute value in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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While the absolute value change since 2008 is a whopping 297.14 percent, according to the report, the 5711 has been steeply declining in value since peaking two years ago. Allen Farmelo, Robb Report, 17 Dec. 2024 The higher the absolute value of the beta coefficient, the stronger the effect of diet quality on the outcome. New Atlas, 15 Dec. 2024 There is no absolute value to anything the first B-girl is doing. Dvora Meyers, WIRED, 9 Aug. 2024 To watch the greats (in absolute value) duke it out, yet again? Ginny Hogan, The New Yorker, 8 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for absolute value 

Word History

First Known Use

1803, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of absolute value was in 1803

Dictionary Entries Near absolute value

Cite this Entry

“Absolute value.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/absolute%20value. Accessed 5 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

absolute value

noun
: a nonnegative number that is equal to a given number with any negative sign removed
the absolute value of -3 is 3
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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