I. ˈē-kwəl adjective
Etymology: Middle English, from Latin aequalis, from aequus level, equal
Date: 14th century
1.
a.
(1) : of the same measure, quantity, amount, or number as another
(2) : identical in mathematical value or logical denotation : equivalent
b. : like in quality, nature, or status
c. : like for each member of a group, class, or society
provide equal employment opportunities
2. : regarding or affecting all objects in the same way : impartial
3. : free from extremes: as
a. : tranquil in mind or mood
b. : not showing variation in appearance, structure, or proportion
4.
a. : capable of meeting the requirements of a situation or a task
b. : suitable
bored with work not equal to his abilities
Synonyms: see same
II. noun
Date: 1573
1. : one that is equal
insists that women can be absolute equal s with men — Anne Bernays
2. : an equal quantity
III. transitive verb
( equaled or equalled ; equal·ing or equal·ling )
Date: 1590
1. : to be equal to ; especially : to be identical in value to
2. archaic : equalize
3. : to make or produce something equal to