lambda
n. countablen. the eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet. In math and science, people use this symbol to represent specific ideas like wavelength or a type of calculation in computer code. In computing, a lambda is a small, simple function that does not have a name and can be used inside other pieces of code.
n. the eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet (Λ, λ). Used as a symbol for wavelength in physics, an eigenvalue in linear algebra, or to denote anonymous functions in computer programming. In programming, a lambda refers to an anonymous function or a function literal that can be treated as data, often used for short, one-time tasks.
The scientist used the Greek letter lambda to represent the wavelength.
In functional programming, a lambda allows you to define a small function without giving it a specific name.
The physicist calculated the precise value of lambda to determine how the light wave would refract through the experimental lens.
From Ancient Greek λάμβδα (lámbda). Doublet of lamed.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Often used as a mathematical variable or a symbol in scientific formulas.
Last updated July 22, 2026