ratio

noun

ra·​tio ˈrā-shē-ˌō How to pronounce ratio (audio)
-(ˌ)shō
plural ratios
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
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Honeywell did, however, realize a book-to-bill ratio of 1.1 times thanks to a 2% organic increase in orders. Jim Cramer, CNBC, 24 Oct. 2024 One thing to note: thanks to its light weight, the R has a better power-to-weight ratio than any current 911. Bryan Hood, Robb Report, 24 Oct. 2024 The same mindset appears today in the national differences between company total return ratios: The sum of dividend payments and share buybacks as a percentage of net income averaged 83% for U.S. companies in 2022, but just 29% for Japanese companies. Michael Useem, Fortune Asia, 24 Oct. 2024 This model features attractive colors; a motor big enough to ensure an optimal 2:1 power-to-weight ratio, resulting in top speeds over 30 mph; quick responsiveness; high agility; and pinpoint control. Toby Rose, Parents, 24 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near ratio

Cite this Entry

“Ratio.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ratio. Accessed 11 Nov. 2024.

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

More from Merriam-Webster on ratio

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