Definition of parameter
1a
: an arbitrary constant whose value characterizes a member of a system (such as a family of curves)
also
: a quantity (such as a mean or variance) that describes a statistical population
b
: an independent variable used to express the coordinates of a variable point and functions of them — compare parametric equation
2
: any of a set of physical properties whose values determine the characteristics or behavior of something
parameters of the atmosphere such as temperature, pressure, and density
3
: something represented by a parameter : a characteristic element
broadly
: characteristic, element, factor
political dissent as a parameter of modern life health care is a universal parameter, … a ubiquitous concern across every age, occupation, and class line. — Wayne Biddle
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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Time Traveler for parameter
The first known use of parameter was in 1833
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