- Equal
- Equal E"qual, a. [L. aequalis, fr. aequus even, equal; akin to
Skr. ?ka, and perh. to L. unus for older oinos one, E. one.]
1. Agreeing in quantity, size, quality, degree, value, etc.;
having the same magnitude, the same value, the same
degree, etc.; -- applied to number, degree, quantity, and
intensity, and to any subject which admits of them;
neither inferior nor superior, greater nor less, better
nor worse; corresponding; alike; as, equal quantities of
land, water, etc.; houses of equal size; persons of equal
stature or talents; commodities of equal value.
[1913 Webster]
2. Bearing a suitable relation; of just proportion; having competent power, abilities, or means; adequate; as, he is not equal to the task. [1913 Webster]
The Scots trusted not their own numbers as equal to fight with the English. --Clarendon. [1913 Webster]
It is not permitted to me to make my commendations equal to your merit. --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
Whose voice an equal messenger Conveyed thy meaning mild. --Emerson. [1913 Webster]
3. Not variable; equable; uniform; even; as, an equal movement. ``An equal temper.'' --Dryden. [1913 Webster]
4. Evenly balanced; not unduly inclining to either side; characterized by fairness; unbiased; impartial; equitable; just. [1913 Webster]
Are not my ways equal? --Ezek. xviii. 29. [1913 Webster]
Thee, O Jove, no equal judge I deem. --Spenser. [1913 Webster]
Nor think it equal to answer deliberate reason with sudden heat and noise. --Milton. [1913 Webster]
5. Of the same interest or concern; indifferent. [1913 Webster]
They who are not disposed to receive them may let them alone or reject them; it is equal to me. --Cheyne. [1913 Webster]
6. (Mus.) Intended for voices of one kind only, either all male or all female; -- opposed to {mixed}. [R.] [1913 Webster]
7. (Math.) Exactly agreeing with respect to quantity. [1913 Webster]
{Equal temperament}. (Mus.) See {Temperament}.
Syn: Even; equable; uniform; adequate; proportionate; commensurate; fair; just; equitable. [1913 Webster]
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.
