factor (ˈfæktə
)
Definitions
noun
- an element or cause that contributes to a result
- mathematics
- one of two or more integers or polynomials whose product is a given integer or polynomial ⇒
2 and 3 are factors of 6
- an integer or polynomial that can be exactly divided into another integer or polynomial ⇒
1, 2, 3, and 6 are all factors of 6
- one of two or more integers or polynomials whose product is a given integer or polynomial ⇒
- (foll by identifying numeral) medicine any of several substances that participate in the clotting of blood ⇒
factor VIII
- a person who acts on another's behalf, esp one who transacts business for another
- business a business that makes loans in return for or on security of trade debts
- former name for a gene
- commercial law a person to whom goods are consigned for sale and who is paid a factorage
- (in Scotland) the manager of an estate
verb
- (intr) to engage in the business of a factor
See also
factor inAlternative Forms
ˈfactorable adjective ˌfactoraˈbility noun ˈfactorˌship nounWord Origin
C15: from Latin: one who acts, from facere to doSynonyms
View thesaurus entry=
element,
thing,
point,
part,
cause,
influence,
item,
aspect,
circumstance,
characteristic,
consideration,
component,
determinant,
Usage examples
The degree of her determination to get the Night Watch out of France would be the deciding factor.
, Cormorant (1994)Choose from the options below, or suggest a key factor you think we have missed out.
Country Life (2004)The expectation that the Smurfit Stone stake will be sold is the main factor behind the recovery of the share price in recent months.
Irish Times (2002)His deeply held Christian convictions have always been a motivating factor in his every endeavour.
Glasgow Herald (2001)The knowing factor is left out of the equation, or at least, its significance overlooked.
, KARMA, REINCARNATION AND REBIRTH: How Karma Affects Our Life, Our Personality, and Our Future (2002)