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Definition of factor noun from the Oxford Advanced American Dictionary

        

    factor

     noun
    noun
    NAmE//ˈfæktər//
     
     
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  1. 1[countable] one of several things that cause or influence something economic factors The closure of the mine was the single most important factor in the town's decline. the key/crucial/deciding factor The result will depend on a number of different factors Language BankcauseX causes Y
    • Childhood obesity can cause/lead to long-term health problems.
    • Changes in lifestyle and diet over the last twenty years have caused/led to/resulted in a sharp increase in childhood obesity.
    • Several factors, including changes in diet and lifestyle, have contributed to the increase in childhood obesity.
    • Research suggests that fast food and soft drinks directly contribute to childhood obesity.
    • Genetics, lifestyle, and diet are all important factors in cases of childhood obesity.
    • Even small changes in lifestyle and diet can bring about significant weight loss.
  2. 2[countable] (mathematics) a number that divides into another number exactly 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 12 are the factors of 12.
  3. 3[countable] the amount by which something increases or decreases The real wage of the average worker has increased by a factor of over ten in the last 70 years.
  4. 4[countable] a particular level on a scale of measurement The wind chill factor will make it seem colder. a sunblock with a sun protection factor of 30
  5. 5[uncountable] (medical) a substance in the blood that helps the clotting process. There are several types of this substance Hemophiliacs have no factor 8 in their blood
See factor in the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary