factor definition

1. anything that contributes causally to a result
• examples: a number of factors determined the outcome
2. any of the numbers (or symbols) that form a product when multiplied together
3. an independent variable in statistics
4. resolve into factors
• examples: a quantum computer can factor the number 15
5. be a contributing factor
• examples: make things factor into a company's profitability
6. consider as relevant when making a decision
• examples: You must factor in the recent developments