figure of merit

noun phrase

: a numerical quantity based on one or more characteristics of a system or device that represents a measure of efficiency or effectiveness

Examples of figure of merit in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
To address this inconsistent measuring, researchers at ICFO in Barcelona, have proposed a universal figure of merit (FoM) that can be used to better evaluate the performance of TPV devices. IEEE Spectrum, 21 Feb. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1865, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of figure of merit was circa 1865

Dictionary Entries Near figure of merit

Cite this Entry

“Figure of merit.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/figure%20of%20merit. Accessed 29 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!