Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

eigen

adjective

/ˈaɪɡən/

Definition

A term used in mathematics and physics, particularly in the context of linear transformations and certain areas of linear algebra.

Examples

In linear algebra, an eigenvector of a matrix is a non-zero vector that changes by only a scalar factor when that linear transformation is applied.
The concept of eigenvalues is crucial in solving systems of differential equations.

Meaning

The term ‘eigen’ is derived from the German word meaning ‘own’ or ‘specific.’ In mathematical contexts, it often refers to eigenvalues and eigenvectors.