dummy variable

noun

: an arbitrary mathematical symbol or variable that can be replaced by another without affecting the value of the expression in which it occurs

Word History

First Known Use

1934, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of dummy variable was in 1934

Dictionary Entries Near dummy variable

Cite this Entry

“Dummy variable.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/dummy%20variable. Accessed 23 Dec. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on dummy variable

Love words? Need even more definitions?

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