eigenvector

noun

ei·​gen·​vec·​tor ˈī-gən-ˌvek-tər How to pronounce eigenvector (audio)
: a nonzero vector that is mapped by a given linear transformation of a vector space onto a vector that is the product of a scalar multiplied by the original vector

called also characteristic vector

Examples of eigenvector in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The y axis represents eigenvector 1, the largest dimensions of variation in the data set, and the x axis eigenvector 2, the second largest dimension. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 24 Mar. 2011 The regions closer to mainland Asia are shifted in that direction on eigenvector 2. Razib Khan, Discover Magazine, 24 Mar. 2011

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'eigenvector.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary eigen- (from German eigen) + vector

First Known Use

1941, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of eigenvector was in 1941

Dictionary Entries Near eigenvector

Cite this Entry

“Eigenvector.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eigenvector. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

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