quotient

noun

quo·​tient ˈkwō-shənt 

1

: the number resulting from the division of one number by another

2

: the numerical ratio usually multiplied by 100 between a test score and a standard value

3

: quota, share

4

: the magnitude of a specified characteristic or quality

the celebrity's likability quotient is high

Examples of quotient in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The maximum allowable liability quotient tapers from 90 per cent this season to 80 per cent from 2028-29 onwards. — Chris Weatherspoon, New York Times, 21 Aug. 2026

There’s something subversive in the way that Carlile turns up the rage quotient onstage at Newport. — Marissa R. Moss, Rolling Stone, 14 Aug. 2026

While the hilarity quotient is high, Chinn also sneaks in observant commentary on class, race, and gender—and the chemistry among the four leads is absolutely off the charts. — Judy Berman, Time, 11 Aug. 2026

The Raen sunglasses feature a unique hexagonal shape that ups the style quotient from generic round frames. — Tim Chan, Footwear News, 13 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

Middle English quocient, modification of Latin quotiens how many times, from quot how many

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing quotient

• emotional quotient
• intelligence quotient
• quotient group
• quotient ring
• respiratory quotient

Kids Definition

quotient

noun

quo·​tient ˈkwō-shənt 

: the number resulting from the division of one number by another

dividing 10 by 5 gives a quotient of 2

Etymology

Middle English quocient, an altered form of Latin quotiens "how many times?"

Medical Definition

quotient

noun

quo·​tient ˈkwō-shənt 

: the numerical ratio usually multiplied by 100 between a test score and a measurement on which that score might be expected largely to depend