[ ˌkəʊɪ'fɪʃ(ə)nt ]
■ noun
1》 Mathematics a numerical or constant quantity placed before and multiplying the variable in an algebraic expression (e.g. 4 in 4x y ).
2》 Physics a multiplier or factor that measures some property.
Origin
C17: from mod. L. ~- , from com- 'together' + efficient- (see efficient ).