determinant
nounUK /dɪˈtɜːmɪnənt/
US /dɪˈtɜːrmɪnənt/
A determinant is something that decides or controls what happens.
Hard work was the main determinant of her success.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. In math, a number calculated from a square matrix that helps solve equations.
The determinant of the matrix was zero, so it had no inverse.
3. A gene or substance that controls a trait or outcome in biology.
Researchers identified a genetic determinant of the disease.
4. A word that limits or specifies a noun, such as 'the' or 'this'.
In grammar, 'the' is a common determinant.