Meaning & Definition of word "Lambda"
Lambda
/ˈlæm.də/
noun:
- 1. The eleventh letter of the Greek alphabet (Λ, λ) used in various fields such as mathematics and physics.
- Example: In physics, the wavelength is often represented by the symbol lambda.
- 2. A function defined with an anonymous function definition, used particularly in programming languages like Python.
- Example: The lambda function in Python allows for quick and concise function definitions.
- 3. In calculus, the rate of decay in radioactive substances is denoted by lambda.
- Example: The decay constant, lambda, indicates how quickly a radioactive material will decay.
- 4. In statistics, lambda may refer to a parameter in certain probability distributions.
- Example: In the Poisson distribution, lambda represents the average rate of occurrence.
Etymology
●Derived from the Greek letter lambda, which is the 11th letter of the Greek alphabet.
Common Phrases and Expressions
lambda calculus:
A formal system in mathematical logic for expressing computation based on function abstraction and application.
lambda function:
A function defined without a name, often used for short-term operations.
lambda expression:
A notation for defining anonymous functions in programming.
Related Words
function:
A relation or expression involving one or more variables, especially in mathematics.
calculus:
A branch of mathematics that studies continuous change.