Collins English-English Dictionary

factor ['fæktə]

1. 1. n an element or cause that contributes to a result

2. 2. n [maths] one of two or more integers or polynomials whose product is a given integer or polynomial

   2 and 3 are factors of 6

3. 3. n an integer or polynomial that can be exactly divided into another integer or polynomial

   1, 2, 3, and 6 are all factors of 6

4. 4. n [foll by identifying numeral] [med] any of several substances that participate in the clotting of blood

   factor VIII

5. 5. n a person who acts on another's behalf, esp one who transacts business for another

6. 6. n [commerce] a business that makes loans in return for or on security of trade debts

7. 7. n former name for a gene

8. 8. n [commercial law] a person to whom goods are consigned for sale and who is paid a factorage

9. 9. n (in Scotland) the manager of an estate

10. 10. vi. [intr] to engage in the business of a factor

11. 11. vi. See also factor in

12. 12. vi. [Etymology] C15: from Latin: one who acts, from facere to do

13. 13. n [Usage] Factor (sense 1) should only be used to refer to something which contributes to a result. It should not be used to refer to a part of something such as a plan or arrangement; instead a word such as component or element should be used