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linear

linear

2 6.0
Giving an output that closely matches the input
  • adjective
  • /ˈlɪniər/
  • Specialized
translation icon : lineal
  • Additional transient effects come from the inherent linear behavior of the hearing aid, particularly from the receiver response.
  • linear response
  • linear system
  • linear gain

Examples

  • Human-altered landforms are generally more linear and are characterized by less topographic diversity than their counterparts in undeveloped areas.

    Academic text (1990)
  • The highest pattern match score is now for linear processing.

    Academic text (1990)
  • We, it is done properly, it's done logically, it's done in a very linear fashion.

  • Satisfaction was unaffected by performance or reward structure but showed a positive linear relationship with subjects' expressed preference for cooperation.

    Academic text (1990)
  • There is a significant linear relationship between FCAT scores and economically disadvantaged classification.

    Academic text (2011)
  • The engineer designed a circuit that provides a linear output, ensuring compatibility with various input levels.

  • In a linear system, the output increases proportionally as the input changes, making it easier to predict performance.

  • The test showed that the relationship between voltage and current in this device is linear, indicating optimal functionality.

Synonyms

analog
vslinear
  • Specialized
1 5.4

Using changing physical signals instead of digital numbers

stresses direct proportionality and operation without distortion or nonlinearity

Antonyms

nonlinear
  • Specialized
6 6.8

A math equation or relation that does not make a straight line and is harder to solve

Compounds

linear algebra
  • Specialized
1 5.8

A branch of math that studies equations and matrices to solve problems

linear regression
  • Specialized
1 3.9

A way to use a straight line to show how one number changes with another

Linear B
  • Specialized
1 9.9

An ancient writing system used in Greece to write early Greek

linear accelerator
  • Specialized
1 7.0

A machine that makes tiny charged particles move faster in a straight line

linear equation
  • Specialized
1 4.1

An equation with the variable to the first power that makes a straight line when graphed

linear programming
  • Specialized
1 6.0

A math method to find the best result when rules use only adding and multiplying by numbers

linear function
  • Specialized
1 4.7

A rule that makes a straight line on a graph

linear perspective
  • Specialized
1 6.7

A way of drawing that makes distant objects look smaller to show distance

Linear A
  • Specialized
9.9

A writing system from ancient Crete that no one can read

A way to measure length, like a meter or inch

linear leaf
  • Specialized
7.6

A long narrow leaf with nearly parallel sides

A unit for length like a meter or inch

linear meter
  • Specialized
6.8

A device with a pointer that moves evenly as the measured value changes

linear operator
  • Specialized
7.7

A rule that changes functions and keeps addition and multiplication by numbers

A system that keeps a machine stable using a simple model and noisy measurements despite random disturbances

A machine that uses microwaves to speed up charged particles in a straight line

nautical linear unit
  • Specialized
7.5

A unit of distance used in sea navigation, like a nautical mile

How Linear

linear
  • Specialized
2 6.0
nonlinear
  • Specialized
6 6.8

Surface Forms

linear positive

Morphology

linear = line (semi-transparent) = line + ar

The technical sense 'output proportional to input' is metaphorically derived from a straight-line relation and requires domain knowledge (e.g., electronics, physics).

Etymology

Linear comes from the Latin linea ('line'), the same root as the English word line. In circuits and devices, 'linear' means the output follows the input in a steady, 'straight-line' way, so the signal is not distorted.