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.
The city has more unmarried women than men, with a ratio of about 93 men for every 100 women. Jordan Green, Memphis Commercial Appeal, 9 Feb. 2026 Always Read the Label Because every fertilizer has a different formulation, there’s no universal winter ratio. Gemma Johnstone, The Spruce, 8 Feb. 2026 That ratio is thought to indicate how well the placenta is functioning, McDonald said. Nicole Villalpando, Austin American Statesman, 7 Feb. 2026 Many liked the texture of the peanut butter and felt the chocolate to peanut butter ratio was balanced, so this may be a good option for those that like their cups on the sweeter side. Melinda Salchert, Southern Living, 7 Feb. 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 13 Feb. 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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