independent variable
 獨立變量
 independent variable
 自變數
 Va·ri·a·ble, n.
 1. That which is variable; that which varies, or is subject to change.
 2. Math. A quantity which may increase or decrease; a quantity which admits of an infinite number of values in the same expression; a variable quantity; as, in the equation x² - y² = R², x and y are variables.
 3. Naut. (a) A shifting wind, or one that varies in force. (b) pl. Those parts of the sea where a steady wind is not expected, especially the parts between the trade-wind belts.
 Independent variable Math., that one of two or more variables, connected with each other in any way whatever, to which changes are supposed to be given at will. Thus, in the equation x² - y² = R², if arbitrary changes are supposed to be given to x, then x is the independent variable, and y is called a function of x.  There may be two or more independent variables in an equation or problem.   Cf. Dependent variable, under Dependent.
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 In·de·pend·ent a.
 1. Not dependent; free; not subject to control by others; not relying on others; not subordinate; as, few men are wholly independent.
    A dry, but independent crust.   --Cowper.
 2. Affording a comfortable livelihood; as, an independent property.
 3. Not subject to bias or influence; not obsequious; self-directing; as, a man of an independent mind.
 4. Expressing or indicating the feeling of independence; free; easy; bold; unconstrained; as, an independent air or manner.
 5. Separate from; exclusive; irrespective.
    That obligation in general, under which we conceive ourselves bound to obey a law, independent of those resources which the law provides for its own enforcement.   --R. P. Ward.
 6. Eccl. Belonging or pertaining to, or holding to the doctrines or methods of, the Independents.
 7. Math. Not dependent upon another quantity in respect to value or rate of variation; -- said of quantities or functions.
 8. U. S. Politics Not bound by party; exercising a free choice in voting with either or any party.
 Independent company Mil., one not incorporated in any regiment.
 Independent seconds watch, a stop watch having a second hand driven by a separate set of wheels, springs, etc., for timing to a fraction of a second.
 Independent variable. Math. See Dependent variable, under Dependent.
 Syn: -- Free; uncontrolled; separate; uncoerced; self-reliant; bold; unconstrained; unrestricted.
 independent variable
      n : (statistics) a variable whose values are independent of
          changes in the values of other variables [syn: experimental
          variable]