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Definition of parameter

parameter

/pəˈræm.ɪ.tɚ/
pa · ram · e · ter
Adverb:parametrically
•
Plural:parameters
•
Adjective:parametric
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parameter Lexical Profile

parameter Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A numerical or other measurable factor forming one of a set that defines a system or sets the conditions of its operation.

Example

"The engineers adjusted the temperature and pressure parameters to optimize the chemical reaction."

2

A limit, boundary, or guideline that defines the scope of a particular process, project, or activity.

Example

"The committee must operate within the strict financial parameters established by the board."

3

In computer programming, a special kind of variable defined in a function or subroutine to receive an input value (argument) when the routine is called.

Example

"This function accepts two parameters: the user's identification number and a date string."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for parameter

Word Nuance & Usage

Often confused with 'perimeter' (the outer boundary of a physical area); in general usage, 'parameter' refers to a measurable factor, condition, or framework that defines the scope of a system or activity.

• Rhymes for parameter

• Nearby Words

paramecium
paramedic
paramedical
parameter
paramilitary
paramount
paramour

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in Modern Latin in the 1630s by mathematician Claude Mydorge from Ancient Greek para- ('beside, subsidiary') and metron ('measure').

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Parameter. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/parameter
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