Meaning & Definition of word "Lambda"

Lambda

/ˈlæm.də/

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.

Derived from the Greek letter lambda, which is the 11th letter of the Greek alphabet.

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.

function:

A relation or expression involving one or more variables, especially in mathematics.

calculus:

A branch of mathematics that studies continuous change.