/ ɪˈkweɪʒn; NAmE / noun
1.
[ C ] ( mathematics ) a statement showing that two amounts or values are equal, for example 2x + y = 54
2.
[ U , sing. ] the act of making sth equal or considering sth as equal (= of equating them) :
The equation of wealth with happiness can be dangerous.
3.
[ C , usually sing. ] a problem or situation in which several things must be considered and dealt with :
When children enter the equation , further tensions may arise within a marriage.
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WORD ORIGIN
late Middle English : from Latin aequatio(n-) , from aequare make equal, from aequus even, level, equal.