safety factor Definition

factor
noun

1. A circumstance that contributes to a result.

Thesaurus: part, element, point, aspect, constituent, parameter.
2. math.
One of two or more numbers that, when multiplied together, produce a given number.
Example: 4 is a factor of 12
3a. In Scotland: the manager of an estate;
3b. In Scotland: an agent responsible for renting property for an absent owner.

verb

intr
factored, factoring
1. To act as a factor (on someone's behalf).

Derivative: safety factor

See separate entry.

Etymology: 15c: Latin, meaning ‘a person who acts'.

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safety factor
noun

1. mech & engineering.
The ratio between the breaking stress in a material or structure, and the safe permissible stress in it.