Mathematics. an algebraic expression of the sum of products of elements, each with an appropriate algebraic sign, usually written in a square array and used in the solution of systems of linear equations.
3.
Also called antigenic determinant, epitope. Immunology. any site on an antigen molecule at which an antibody can bind, the chemical structure of the site determining the specific combining antibody.
4.
Genetics Archaic. a gene.
Origin
1600-10; < Latindēterminant- (stem of dētermināns), present participle of dētermināre. See determine, -ant
Related forms
nondeterminant, noun
Examples from the web for determinant
Your home temperature settings are an important determinant of fuel costs from heating.
The level of combat is the main determinant of mental health status.
In the virtual world, proximity in time is a value determinant.
He argues that spirituality, not economics, is the main determinant of social progress.
In fact, our posts are the final determinant of correct answers.
It's the strongest determinant of health in the world.
The question is, whether will or intellect is the ultimate determinant of free choices.
And skin color is not a determinant of physiological or psychological functions.
But new research suggests that there is one key determinant in how deadly a fungal infection is going to be: spore size.
The second, far more determinant, reason is the addition of water to the ocean.
British Dictionary definitions for determinant
determinant
/dɪˈtɜːmɪnənt/
adjective
1.
serving to determine or affect
noun
2.
a factor, circumstance, etc, that influences or determines
3.
(maths) a square array of elements that represents the sum of certain products of these elements, used to solve simultaneous equations, in vector studies, etc Compare matrix (sense 9)
Word Origin and History for determinant
c.1600 (adj.); 1680s (n.), from Latin determinantem (nominative determinans), present participle of determinare (see determine).