WordNet-Online
Free dictionary and thesaurus of English. Definitions, synonyms, antonyms and more...
Hint: double-click any word to get it searched!

	Enter your search terms Submit search form
	Web www.wordnet-online.com

Definitions from the Web

Polyvalency

Description:

Polyvalency refers to the state or characteristic of having multiple meanings, functions, or applications. It can be observed in various contexts such as language, chemistry, and mathematics.

Senses/Usages:

1. Linguistics:

In linguistics, polyvalency describes a word or phrase that can have multiple interpretations or senses, depending on the context and usage. For example:

1. "Bank" is a polyvalent term as it can refer to a financial institution, the edge of a river, or an action of tilting or turning.
2. "Crane" can denote a bird species or a large mechanical device used for lifting heavy objects.

Sample Sentence: "The polyvalency of the word 'crane' makes it prone to misunderstandings."

2. Chemistry:

In chemistry, polyvalency denotes the ability of an atom or molecule to combine with multiple other atoms or molecules. It relates to the number of bonds or attachments it can form. For instance:

1. The polyvalency of carbon allows it to bond with up to four other atoms, leading to the diversity of organic compounds.
2. Oxygen's polyvalency enables it to form multiple bonds with other elements, contributing to its role in many reactions.

Sample Sentence: "The polyvalency of nitrogen makes it an essential element for constructing various compounds."

3. Mathematics:

In mathematics, polyvalency refers to the function or property of having multiple valid outputs or solutions for a given input. This concept is especially prevalent in complex numbers and certain equations.

Sample Sentence: "Complex roots exhibit polyvalency, as quadratic equations may have multiple valid solutions."

Related Products:

• Polyvalency in Linguistics
• Organic Chemistry
• Polyvalent Atoms
• Complex Numbers: Introduction and Applications