exponential

adjective

ex·​po·​nen·​tial ˌek-spə-ˈnen(t)-shəl How to pronounce exponential (audio)
1
: of or relating to an exponent
2
: involving a variable in an exponent
10x is an exponential expression
3
: expressible or approximately expressible by an exponential function
especially : characterized by or being an extremely rapid increase (as in size or extent)
an exponential growth rate
exponentially adverb

Examples of exponential in a Sentence

The business has experienced several years of exponential growth. Prices have increased at an exponential rate. 103 is an exponential expression.
Recent Examples on the Web By investing in new sources of power for these facilities, the partnership aims to create a more resilient and efficient energy ecosystem that can support the exponential growth of AI. Dr. Ekta Dang, Forbes, 29 Oct. 2024 The exponential upward curve of AI capabilities For CISOs at companies developing the most advanced AI models, planning for future risks is essential. Sharon Goldman, Fortune, 23 Oct. 2024 Her business experienced exponential growth, demonstrating that intuition, when cultivated and trusted, can lead to extraordinary results. Carrie Anne Yu, Forbes, 16 Oct. 2024 The exponential growth of ESG assets under management only underscores the importance. Priya Parrish, Fortune, 10 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for exponential 

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

Word History

First Known Use

1701, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of exponential was in 1701

Dictionary Entries Near exponential

Cite this Entry

“Exponential.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/exponential. Accessed 1 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

exponential

adjective
ex·​po·​nen·​tial ˌek-spə-ˈnen-chəl How to pronounce exponential (audio)
: of, relating to, or involving an exponent
xⁿ is an exponential expression
exponentially adverb

Medical Definition

exponential

adjective
ex·​po·​nen·​tial ˌek-spə-ˈnen-chəl How to pronounce exponential (audio)
: expressible or approximately expressible by an exponential function
an exponential growth rate
exponentially adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on exponential

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