ˈi:kwəl adj., n., & v. --adj. 1 (often foll. by
to, with)
the same in
quantity,
quality, size,
degree, rank,
level, etc. 2 evenly balanced (an equal contest). 3 having the same rights or
status (human beings are essentially equal). 4
uniform in
application or
effect. --n. a
person or
thing equal to
another,
esp. in rank, status, or
characteristic quality (their
treatment of the
subject has no equal; is the equal of
any man). --v.tr. (equalled, equalling; US equaled, equaling) 1 be equal to in
number, quality, etc. 2
achieve something that is equal to (an achievement) or to the
achievement of (a person). øbe equal to
have the
ability or resources
for. equal
opportunity (often in pl.) the opportunity or
right to be employed,
paid,
etc.,
without discrimination on grounds of
sex, race, etc. equal (or equals)
sign the
symbol =. [ME f. L aequalis f. aequus even]