Meaning & Definition of word "Gamma"

Gamma

/ˈɡæmə/

noun:

  • 1. The third letter of the Greek alphabet (Γ, γ), used to represent a 'g' sound in the Greek language.
    • Example: In the Greek alphabet, gamma is the third letter, following beta.
  • 2. In physics, gamma refers to the gamma radiation emitted by radioactive substances, which is a high-energy form of electromagnetic radiation.
    • Example: Gamma rays are extremely penetrating and can penetrate most materials.
  • 3. In finance, gamma denotes the rate of change of an option's delta in relation to the price of the underlying asset.
    • Example: Traders often monitor the gamma of their options positions to assess risk.
  • 4. In statistics, gamma is used in reference to the gamma function, which extends the concept of factorial to non-integer values.
    • Example: The gamma function is crucial for solving many types of integrals in advanced mathematics.
  • 5. In computer graphics, gamma refers to the correction applied to the brightness of images to adjust for human perception.
    • Example: Adjusting the gamma settings on your monitor can improve the clarity of the displayed images.

Etymology

From Greek 'gamma', of uncertain origin.

Common Phrases and Expressions

gamma rays:

High-energy electromagnetic waves emitted by radioactive substances.

gamma correction:

A nonlinear operation used to encode and decode luminance in images.

gamma distribution:

A family of continuous probability distributions.

Related Words

delta:

The fourth letter of the Greek alphabet, often used in mathematics and science.

beta:

The second letter of the Greek alphabet, used to signify various scientific concepts.

alpha:

The first letter of the Greek alphabet, often used to denote the first in a series.

Slang Meanings of gamma

Meaning: A term referring to someone overly submissive or weak.

Example Sentence: He's such a gamma, never standing up for himself.

Meaning: Someone who follows others' lead without asserting their own opinions.

Example Sentence: In the group, he was definitely the gamma, just going along with everything.