differential equation

noun

: an equation containing differentials or derivatives of functions compare partial differential equation

Examples of differential equation in a Sentence

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.
She was hired as a mathematician, joining a cadre of workers who used linear algebra, calculus, and other methods to manually solve complex problems such as differential equations. IEEE Spectrum, 30 July 2024 The solution of differential equations that involve only one derivative typically requires less than 0.1 microjoules of energy on our computer. IEEE Spectrum, 1 Dec. 2017 One of Hilbert’s problems, about families of curves defined by differential equations, was considered solved. Quanta Magazine, 22 May 2024 Her formula is complicated, but Sarnak hails it as an important new kind of function, comparable to the Airy functions that define solutions to differential equations used in a variety of contexts in physics, ranging from optics to quantum mechanics. Lyndie Chiou, Quanta Magazine, 5 Mar. 2024 See all Example Sentences for differential equation 

Word History

First Known Use

1704, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of differential equation was in 1704

Dictionary Entries Near differential equation

Cite this Entry

“Differential equation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/differential%20equation. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on differential equation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!