• (n.) The eliminant of the n partial differentials of any homogenous function of n variables. See Eliminant.
in mathematics, a parameter of an object or system calculated as an aid to its classification or solution. In the case of a quadratic equation ... [1 related articles]
A quantity that gives valuable information about the solutions of an equation. In the case of a quadratic equation ax2 + bx + c = 0, the discriminant is given by d = b2 - 4ac. If d > 0, the roots of the equation are two different real numbers; if d = 0, ...
Dis·crim'i·nant noun [ Latin discriminans , present participle of discriminare .] (Math.) The eliminant of the n partial differentials of any homogenous function of n variables. See Eliminant . 
a relatively simple expression that determines some of the properties, as the nature of the roots, of a given equation or function.