n.1 one of a series of arithmetic exponents tabulated to simplify computation by making it possible to use addition and subtraction instead of multiplication and division.
2 the power to which a fixed number or base ( see BASE(1) 7) must be raised to produce a given number (the logarithm of 1000 to base 10 is 3).
Usage:
Abbr.: log.
Phrases and idioms:
common logarithm a logarithm to the base 10. natural (or Napierian) logarithm a logarithm to the base e (2.71828.....).
Usage:
Abbr.: ln or log**.
Derivatives:
logarithmic adj. logarithmically adv.
Etymology: mod.L logarithmus f. Gk logos reckoning, ratio + arithmos number