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Equal

1. Agreeing in quantity, size, quality, degree, value, etc.; having the same magnitude, the same value, the same degree, etc.; applied to number, degree, quantity, and intensity, and to any subject which admits of them; neither inferior nor superior, greater nor less, better nor worse; corresponding; alike; as, equal quantities of land, water, etc.; houses of equal size; persons of equal stature or talents; commodities of equal value.

2. Bearing a suitable relation; of just proportion; having competent power, abilities, or means; adequate; as, he is not equal to the task. The Scots trusted not their own numbers as equal to fight with the english. (Clarendon) It is not permitted to me to make my commendations equal to your merit. (Dryden) Whose voice an equal messenger Conveyed thy meaning mild. (Emerson)

3. Not variable; equable; uniform; even; as, an equal movement. An equal temper.

4. Evenly balanced; not unduly inclining to either side; characterised by fairness; unbiased; impartial; equitable; just. Are not my ways equal? (Ezek. Xviii. 29) Thee, O jove, no equal judge i deem. (Spenser) Nor think it equal to answer deliberate reason with sudden heat and noise. (Milton)

5. Of the same interest or concern; indifferent. They who are not disposed to receive them may let th 7ac em alone or reject them; it is equal to me. (Cheyne)

6. Intended for voices of one kind only, either all male or all female; opposed to mixed.

7. (Science: mathematics) Exactly agreeing with respect to quantity. Equal temperament.

see temperament.

Synonym: even, equable, uniform, adequate, proportionate, commensurate, fair, just, equitable.

Origin: L. Aequalis, fr. Aequus even, equal; akin to Skr. Ka, and perh. To L. Unus for older oinos one, E. One.