statistic
UK: stəˈtɪstɪk | US: stəˈtɪstɪk
n. a numerical fact or piece of data collected for analysis
n. (statistics) the science of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting quantitative data
adj. relating to or based on statistical methods
statistic = stat<state, position> + ist<agent noun suffix> + ic<adjective suffix>
- stat (from Latin status, meaning "state, position")
- ist (agent noun suffix, indicating a person or tool related to the root)
- ic (adjective-forming suffix, meaning "pertaining to")
Etymology Origin:
The word statistic originates from the Latin statisticus, derived from status (state or position). It evolved through German Statistik (18th century), referring to data analysis for state affairs. The suffix -ist denotes a practitioner, while -ic generalizes it as an adjective. The term reflects the transition from political data collection to broader quantitative analysis.
The government published a new statistic on unemployment rates.
She specializes in statistic methods for medical research.
This report includes key statistics about climate change.
The professor explained how to interpret a statistic correctly.
Accurate statistics are essential for policy-making.