Meaning & use
vector
A quantity that has both magnitude and direction, often represented by an arrow.
See it in a sentence
The plane's velocity is a vector showing both its speed and its direction of travel.
Engineers add force vectors to calculate the net push on the bridge.
A note on using this word
Contrast with a scalar, which has magnitude only, such as ordinary speed or temperature.
Words with a similar meaning
This term is best learned through its definition and examples.
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Words with an opposite meaning
Another way to use it
2. noun
An organism, typically an insect, that transmits a disease or pathogen.
Mosquitoes act as a vector for malaria in many tropical regions.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “vector”, then compare your use with the examples above.
Your draft stays on this page and is not sent anywhere.