ANOVA
UK: əˈnəʊvə | US: əˈnoʊvə
n. A statistical method (Analysis of Variance) used to compare means among three or more groups by analyzing variance components.
ANOVA = AN<analysis> + O<of> + VA<variance>
- AN<analysis>: From Greek ana- (up, throughout) + lysis (loosening), implying detailed examination.
- O<of>: Connective preposition in English.
- VA<variance>: From Latin variantia (difference), derived from varius (diverse).
Etymology Origin:
Coined in the early 20th century by statistician Ronald Fisher, "ANOVA" is an acronymic abbreviation of "Analysis of Variance." The term reflects its mathematical logic: decomposing total variance into between-group and within-group components. The morphemes preserve the original acronym structure while rooted in Latin/Greek origins (e.g., varius for variability).
Researchers used ANOVA to determine if the differences in test scores across groups were statistically significant.
The ANOVA results indicated a strong interaction effect between age and treatment type.
Before applying ANOVA, ensure the data meets assumptions of homogeneity of variance.
A one-way ANOVA compares means for a single categorical variable with multiple levels.
The professor explained how ANOVA extends the t-test to accommodate more than two groups.