equation Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a mathematical statement that two expressions are equal
  2. noun a state of being essentially equal or equivalent; equally balanced
    equivalence; equality; par.
    • on a par with the best
  3. noun the act of regarding as equal
    equating.

WordNet

E*qua"tion noun
Etymology
L. aequatio an equalizing: cf. F. équation equation. See Equate.
Definitions
  1. A making equal; equal division; equality; equilibrium.
    Again the golden day resumed its right, And ruled in just equation with the night. Rowe.
  2. (Math.) An expression of the condition of equality between two algebraic quantities or sets of quantities, the sign = being placed between them; as, a binomial equation; a quadratic equation; an algebraic equation; a transcendental equation; an exponential equation; a logarithmic equation; a differential equation, etc.
  3. (Astron.) A quantity to be applied in computing the mean place or other element of a celestial body; that is, any one of the several quantities to be added to, or taken from, its position as calculated on the hypothesis of a mean uniform motion, in order to find its true position as resulting from its actual and unequal motion.

Webster 1913