# coefficient

/ˌkoʊəˈfɪʃənt/ (US) · /kˌəʊɪfˈɪʃənt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/coefficient
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. math multiplier

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

a number that you multiply a variable by in a math problem.

For teachers: a constant factor by which an algebraic term or variable is multiplied.

- In the equation 5x, the number 5 is the coefficient of x.
- The student struggled to isolate the variable because they had incorrectly identified the negative coefficient during the first step of the calculation.

Usage: Usually placed immediately before the variable it modifies.

Teaching tip: While common in algebra, this is a high-level academic word that students will mostly encounter in STEM contexts.

### 2. scientific measure

noun · CEFR C1 · Academic · Technical

a number that measures a specific quality of a material or process.

For teachers: a numerical value or ratio that serves as a measure of a specific physical property or characteristic under defined conditions.

- The coefficient of friction tells us how easily an object slides on a surface.
- Engineers must calculate the expansion coefficient of the metal to ensure the bridge can withstand extreme temperature fluctuations without warping.

Usage: Often used in the pattern 'coefficient of [property]'.

Teaching tip: In this context, the word describes a fixed physical property rather than a variable multiplier.

## Examples

- In the term 5x, the number 5 is the coefficient.
- The teacher asked us to identify the coefficient of y in the equation 3y + 2 = 10.
- The coefficient of friction determines how much resistance exists between two surfaces in contact, influencing the force required to move an object.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.