exponential Meaning & Definition
What Does Exponential Mean?
Exponential is an adjective that means Expressed in terms of an exponent (power of a base), the base often being 10 or e. It is also used to mean Characterised by a rate of change that is proportional to the value of the varying quantity, or, equivalently, by a doubling or halving over successive fixed intervals of time or other parameter, described as exponential growth or exponential decay. As a noun, it means Any function that has an exponent as an independent variable.
Word Facts for Exponential
| Part of speech | adjective, noun |
|---|---|
| Pronunciation | //ˌɛk.spəˈnɛn.t͡ʃəl// |
| Syllables | 1 |
| Synonyms | exponential function |
| Antonyms | nonexponential |
| Plural | exponentials |
Exponential Definition (Adjective)
- Expressed in terms of an exponent (power of a base), the base often being 10 or e.
In base-10 exponential form, 1,000,000 is written as 10.
- Characterised by a rate of change that is proportional to the value of the varying quantity, or, equivalently, by a doubling or halving over successive fixed intervals of time or other parameter, described as exponential growth or exponential decay.
There were two deaths on Monday, four on Tuesday, and eight on Wednesday. The rate of increase seems exponential.
- Characterised by a very rapid rate of change, especially increase, or merely a very large amount or degree.
There's been an exponential rise in the number of crimes reported this year, compared to last year.
Exponential as a Noun
- Any function that has an exponent as an independent variable.
Adjective
- Relating to an exponent.
- Expressed in terms of a power of e.
- Characterised by a rate of change that is proportional to the value of the varying quantity, or, equivalently, by a doubling or halving over successive fixed intervals of time or other parameter.
There were two deaths on Monday, four on Tuesday, and eight on Wednesday. The rate of increase seems exponential.
- Characterised by a very rapid rate of change, especially increase.
Synonyms of Exponential
Exponential synonyms and antonyms →Antonyms of Exponential
Exponential in a Sentence
In base-10 exponential form, 1,000,000 is written as 10.
If not otherwise specified, "the" exponential function is normally understood to mean e.
There were two deaths on Monday, four on Tuesday, and eight on Wednesday. The rate of increase seems exponential.
There's been an exponential rise in the number of crimes reported this year, compared to last year.
Word Forms & Grammar
exponential
exponential (plural exponentials)
Words That Rhyme With Exponential
Origin of Exponential
From exponent + -ial.
Pronouncing Exponential
You say exponential as //ˌɛk.spəˈnɛn.t͡ʃəl//. It has 1 syllable.
Common Questions About Exponential
Is exponential an adjective or a noun?
Exponential is mainly used as an adjective, but it can also be used as a noun.
What is another word for exponential?
Words with a similar meaning to exponential include exponential function. See the full list of exponential synonyms and antonyms.
What is the opposite of exponential?
The opposite of exponential is nonexponential.
What is the plural of exponential?
The plural of exponential is exponentials.