Search the Dictionary

by Diophantus, the Greek writer on algebra. Diophantine analysis (Alg.), that branch of indeterminate analysis which has for its object the discovery of rational values that satisfy given equations containing squares or cubes; as, for example, to find values of x and y which make x2 + y2 an exact square.…

An instrument for determining the time of apparent noon. It consists of two mirrors and a plane glass disposed in the form of a prism, so that, by the reflections of the sun's rays from their surfaces, two images are presented to the eye, moving in opposite directions, and coinciding at the instant the sun's center is…

The science of diplomas, or the art of deciphering ancient writings, and determining their age, authenticity, etc.; paleography.

To determine the direction or course of; to cause to go on in a particular manner; to order in the way to a certain end; to regulate; to govern; as, to direct the affairs of a nation or the movements of an army. I will direct their work in truth. Is. lxi. 8.

ch a point in another line moves, or which in any way governs the motion of the point and determines the position of the curve generated by it; the line along which the generatrix moves in generating a surface.

To dishearten one with respect to; to discountenance; to seek to check by disfavoring; to deter one from; as, they discouraged his efforts.

That which discourages; that which deters, or tends to deter, from an undertaking, or from the prosecution of anything; a determent; as, the revolution was commenced under every possible discouragement. "Discouragements from vice." Swift.

To grow worse; to deteriorate.

Power or authority to dispose of, determine the condition of, control, etc., especially in the phrase at, or in, the disposal of. The sole and absolute disposal of him an his concerns. South.

To regulate; to adjust; to settle; to determine. The knightly forms of combat to dispose. Dryden.

gy, or the art of assaying metals; the art of separating metals from foreign matters, and determining the nature and quantity of metallic substances contained in any ore or mineral.

Sullenly obstinate; obstinately determined or persistent; as, dogged resolution; dogged work.

Sullen or obstinate determination; grim resolution or persistence.

To judge; to estimate or determine as a judge. [Obs.] Milton.

Having different minds at different times; unsettled; undetermined. A double-minded man is unstable in all his ways. Jas. i. 8.

to be undecided as to the truth of the negative or the affirmative proposition; to b e undetermined. Even in matters divine, concerning some things, we may lawfully doubt, and suspend our judgment. Hooker. To try your love and make you doubt of mine. Dryden.

Not settled in opinion; undetermined; wavering; hesitating in belief; also used, metaphorically, of the body when its action is affected by such a state of mind; as, we are doubtful of a fact, or of the propriety of a measure. Methinks I should know you, and know this man; Yet I am doubtful. Shak. With doubtful feet an…

another, directing the payment of money; a bill of exchange. I thought it most prudent to deter the drafts till advice was received of the progress of the loan. A. Hamilton.

Doubtful or not settled in opinion; being in doubt; wavering or fluctuating; undetermined. "Dubious policy." Sir T. Scott. A dubious, agitated state of mind. Thackeray.

An instrument for accurately determining the ductility of metals.