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

Our columnists differ over the quality of the field and the excitement quotient of a race that has yet to capture voter attention. —Los Angeles Times, 14 Apr. 2026

Young Sherlock joins several other new hourlong shows with substantial dramatic quotient that also are being submitted as comedies this year. —Nellie Andreeva, Deadline, 10 Apr. 2026

Perhaps the competitive loss quotient is only used to determine the lottery percentages, versus the ultimate order. —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 4 Apr. 2026

For the record, Dugan agreed with her students about Romeo’s cringe quotient. —Lisa Gutierrez, Kansas City Star, 15 Mar. 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