equal: Meaning and Definition of

e•qual

Pronunciation: (ē'kwul), [key]
— adj., n., v., e•qualed, e•qual•ing e•qualled, e•qual•ling.
—adj.
  1. as great as; the same as (often fol. by to or with): The velocity of sound is not equal to that of light.
  2. like or alike in quantity, degree, value, etc.; of the same rank, ability, merit, etc.: two students of equal brilliance.
  3. evenly proportioned or balanced: an equal contest.
  4. uniform in operation or effect: equal laws.
  5. adequate or sufficient in quantity or degree: The supply is equal to the demand.
  6. having adequate powers, ability, or means: He was equal to the task.
  7. level, as a plain.
  8. tranquil or undisturbed: to confront death with an equal mind.
  9. impartial or equitable.
—n.
  1. a person or thing that is equal.
—v.t.
  1. to be or become equal to; meet or match: So far the rate of production doesn't equal the demand. If A equals B and B equals C, then A equals C.
  2. to make or do something equal to: No matter how he tries, he can't equal his brother's achievements.
  3. to make equal; equalize.
  4. to recompense fully.
Random House Unabridged Dictionary, Copyright © 1997, by Random House, Inc., on Infoplease.
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