Equal

Definition

Equal is an adjective, noun, and verb. As an adjective, it means being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value. As a noun, it refers to a person or thing that is the same as another in status, level, or value. As a verb, it means to be the same as something in number or amount, or to achieve the same result as someone or something else.

Parts of Speech

• Adjective
• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːkwəl/
• Respelling: EE-kwuhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈiːkwəl/
• Respelling: EE-kwuhl

Etymology

The word "equal" originates from the Latin "aequalis," meaning "uniform, identical, or equal," which derives from "aequus," meaning "even" or "level." It entered English through Old French as "equal" to signify equivalence in quantity, quality, or status.

Derivatives

• Equality (noun)
• Equally (adverb)
• Inequality (noun)
• Equate (verb)
• Equilibrium (noun)

Synonyms

• Equivalent
• Identical
• Same

Antonyms

• Unequal
• Different
• Disparate

Usage

The term "equal" is used in various contexts to denote equivalence, fairness, or uniformity, as in "All people are created equal." It can also describe mathematical or quantitative sameness, such as "Two plus two equals four."

Related Terms

• Equivalent: Having the same value or function.
• Equity: The quality of being fair and impartial.
• Balance: A state of even distribution or fairness.

Detailed Definitions

Adjective

• Being the same in quantity, size, degree, or value: Describes something that matches another in characteristics.
  • Example: "The two teams are of equal skill level."
• Fair or impartial: Refers to something based on principles of equality or fairness.
  • Example: "The law treats all citizens as equal."

Noun

• A person or thing considered to be the same as another in status or value: Refers to someone who is on the same level as someone else in a specific aspect.
  • Example: "He considers her his equal in the field."

Verb

• To be the same as something in quantity, degree, or value: Describes achieving an equivalent level or amount as something else.
  • Example: "The company’s profits this year equal last year’s figures."
• To match or rival in achievement or capability: Refers to attaining the same success or skill as someone else.
  • Example: "Few could equal her expertise in engineering."