ratio

noun

ra·​tio ˈrā-shē-ˌō How to pronounce ratio (audio)
-(ˌ)shō
plural ratios
Synonyms of rationext
1
a
: the indicated quotient of two mathematical expressions
b
: the relationship in quantity, amount, or size between two or more things : proportion
2
: the expression of the relative values of gold and silver as determined by a country's currency laws

Examples of ratio in a Sentence

What is the length-to-width ratio? the ratio of students to teachers in the school is nine to one
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Most variations build from that foundation, adjusting ratios or swapping ingredients based on water type and personal preference. Ryan Brennan may 13, Miami Herald, 13 May 2026 The researchers were looking mainly at the ratio between two types of helium — helium-3 and helium-4. Jacopo Prisco, CNN Money, 13 May 2026 The ratio of Cboe's S&P 500 Constituent Volatility Index VIXEQ to VIX has widened to the 98th percentile as correlations remain low. Oliver Renick, CNBC, 12 May 2026 In Los Angeles, the Democrat to Republican ratio is even higher. Los Angeles Times, 12 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ratio

Word History

Etymology

Latin, computation, reason — more at reason entry 1

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of ratio was in 1660

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Ratio.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ratio. Accessed 14 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

ratio

noun
ra·​tio ˈrā-shō How to pronounce ratio (audio)
-shē-ˌō
plural ratios
1
: the quotient of two numbers or mathematical expressions
the ratio of 6 to 3 may be expressed as 6:3, ⁶⁄₃, and 2
2
: the relationship in quantity, amount, or size between two or more things
women outnumbered men in the ratio of three to one

Medical Definition

ratio

noun
plural ratios
: the relationship in quantity, amount, or size between two or more things see sex ratio

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