Meaning & Definition of word "Multiplier"

Multiplier

/ˈmʌl.tɪˌplaɪ.ər/

noun:

  • 1. A factor by which a quantity is multiplied; a number that when multiplied with another produces a product.
    • Example: In the equation, the multiplier of 3 indicates that the variable is tripled.
  • 2. A device or circuit that increases the amplitude of an electrical signal.
    • Example: The engineer installed a multiplier to improve the signal quality of the transmission.
  • 3. In economics, a number that shows how much an increase in spending will lead to an increase in economic output.
    • Example: The government's investment in infrastructure had a significant multiplier effect on the local economy.
  • 4. A coefficient that relates the change in one variable to the change in another variable.
    • Example: The price elasticity of demand can be calculated using a price multiplier.
  • 5. In mathematics, an integer or another number that is used to create a product by multiplication.
    • Example: To find the common multiples, we should first identify the smallest multiplier for each number.

Etymology

From the Latin 'multiplicare', meaning to multiply.

Common Phrases and Expressions

multiplier effect:

The economic phenomenon where an initial amount of spending leads to a greater overall increase in economic activity.

return multiplier:

A measure of the profitability of an investment based on the return generated.

economic multiplier:

A coefficient that indicates the effect of a change in investment on the overall economy.

Related Words

multiply:

To increase a number by another.

multiple:

A number that can be divided by another number without a remainder.

multiplication:

The process of combining quantities.

Slang Meanings of multiplier

Meaning: A person or thing that enhances or makes something better.

Example Sentence: That new manager is a real multiplier for the team’s productivity.

Meaning: Referring to financial strategies that exponentially increase returns.

Example Sentence: Investing in tech is a multiplier for your portfolio.