Meaning & Definition of word "Delta"

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    Delta

    /ˈdɛltə/

    noun:

    • 1. A landform at the mouth of a river created by the deposition of sediment.
      • Example: The Nile Delta is a fertile area that supports agriculture and wildlife.
    • 2. A difference or change in a quantity, often represented as a symbol (Δ) in mathematics and science.
      • Example: The delta in temperature between day and night can be quite significant in desert regions.
    • 3. In finance, a measure of the sensitivity of an option's price to changes in the price of the underlying asset.
      • Example: The delta of a call option typically ranges from 0 to 1, indicating how much the option price will change with the underlying asset's price.

    verb:

    • 1. To form a delta shape or to deposit sediment at the mouth of a river.
      • Example: As the river slowed, it began to delta into the sea, creating new land.

    Etymology

    From the Greek letter 'delta', which is named after its shape resembling a triangle.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    delta force:

    A specialized unit of the U.S. Army responsible for counter-terrorism and hostage rescue operations.

    delta variant:

    A variant of the COVID-19 virus that has mutations making it more transmissible.

    delta time:

    In physics and engineering, refers to the time interval between two events.

    Related Words

    estuary:

    A coastal area where freshwater from rivers meets and mixes with saltwater from the ocean.

    sediment:

    Solid material that is deposited by water, wind, or ice, often contributing to the formation of landforms.

    distributary:

    A river or stream that branches off and flows away from the main river.

    Slang Meanings of delta

    Meaning: An abbreviation for the word 'delta' used in military contexts.

    Example Sentence: The delta team was deployed for the operation.

    Meaning: A term used in gaming to refer to a strategic point or area to control.

    Example Sentence: We need to secure the delta before moving forward.