What does "averaging" mean?

1. (maintaining a rate) reaching a specific result or speed when you look at a whole period of time. 2. (calculating a mean) finding the middle value of several different numbers. 3. (the process) the mathematical process of finding an average.

How do you use "averaging"?

Often followed by a numerical rate or a prepositional phrase starting with 'at'. Often functions as a gerund noun followed by 'of'.

averaging

v. · n.

US //ˈævɹɪdʒɪŋ// UK //ˈævɹɪdʒɪŋ// av·er·ag·ing

1 maintaining a rate (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

reaching a specific result or speed when you look at a whole period of time.

maintaining a mean value or rate over a specific duration or across a series of instances.

Example

The runner was averaging six minutes per mile during her long training run.

Example

The company has been averaging a ten percent increase in quarterly revenue since the new management team took over operations.

Usage

Often followed by a numerical rate or a prepositional phrase starting with 'at'.
- equalling
- amounting to
2 calculating a mean (v.)
B2 Upper Intermediate Math

finding the middle value of several different numbers.

calculating the arithmetic mean of a set of values.

Example

By averaging the scores of all three tests, the teacher found the final grade.

Example

Averaging the results from multiple independent trials helps to reduce the impact of experimental error on the final data set.
- calculating
- computing
3 the process (n.)
C1 Advanced Technical Math

the mathematical process of finding an average.

the action or process of determining an arithmetic mean.

Example

The averaging of the data took longer than the actual collection process.

Example

Sophisticated averaging techniques are required to filter out background noise from the satellite signals.

Usage

Often functions as a gerund noun followed by 'of'.
- calculation
- computation

Last updated June 20, 2026