Parameter
/pəˈræmɪtər/
Definitions
A characteristic or constant factor, limit, or measurable property that defines a system or determines its behavior.
/pəˈræmɪtər/
A characteristic or measurable factor that can help define a system or set the conditions for its operation.
The researcher adjusted the parameters of the model to improve its accuracy.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're building a robot. The 'parameters' are all the settings you can change, like its speed, how far it can move, or the colors of its lights. They help define how your robot works!
👶 For kids: A parameter is like a setting or a rule that helps something work. Like the speed on a toy car!
More Examples
The system's parameters must be carefully calibrated for optimal performance.
The programmer modified the parameters to customize the software's functionality.
The parameters of the test were clearly defined.
How It's Used
"Scientists adjusted the parameters of the experiment to test different variables."
"In the equation, 'a' and 'b' are parameters that determine the shape of the curve."
"The software's performance is affected by various parameters, such as memory usage and CPU speed."
Idioms & expressions
within parameters
Conforming to the established limits or guidelines.
"The project was completed within the defined parameters."
set the parameters
Establish the limits or conditions for something.
"The committee will set the parameters for the new investigation."
From Greek *para-* (beside, alongside) + *metron* (measure). Introduced into mathematics and then widely adopted in science and technology.
Originally used in mathematics and engineering, the term's application expanded significantly with the advent of computers and the rise of systems analysis.
Memory tip
Think of it as the 'measure' that helps define something else.