linear Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. adjective designating or involving an equation whose terms are of the first degree
    additive.
  2. adjective of or in or along or relating to a line; involving a single dimension
    one-dimensional.
    • a linear measurement
  3. adjective of a circuit or device having an output that is proportional to the input
    analogue; analog.
    • analogue device
    • linear amplifier
  4. adjective satellite (of a leaf shape) long and narrow
    elongate.
  5. adjective satellite measured lengthwise
    running.
    • cost of lumber per running foot

WordNet

Lin"e*ar adjective
Etymology
L. linearis, linearius , fr. linea line: cf. F. linéaire. See 3d Line.
Definitions
  1. Of or pertaining to a line; consisting of lines; in a straight direction; lineal.
  2. (Bot.) Like a line; narrow; of the same breadth throughout, except at the extremities; as, a linear leaf.

Webster 1913