equivalent

UK: ɪˈkwɪvələnt | US: ɪˈkwɪvələnt

Definition
  1. adj. equal in value, amount, function, or meaning

  2. n. something that is equivalent to another

Structure
equi <equal>val <worth>ent <adjective suffix>
Etymology

The word "equivalent" traces back to Latin aequivalēns, combining aequi- (equal) and valēre (to be worth). The morpheme equi- (from aequus) denotes balance or equality, while -val- (from valēre) conveys strength or worth. Over time, the term evolved through French équivalent to signify things of comparable value or significance. The suffix -ent marks it as an adjective, solidifying its role in describing parity.

Examples
  1. The two currencies are roughly equivalent in value.

  2. Silence can sometimes be equivalent to consent.

  3. She found a job with an equivalent salary but better benefits.

  4. In chemistry, a mole is equivalent to Avogadro’s number of particles.

  5. His apology was the verbal equivalent of a shrug.