Coefficient

Multiplier denoting how many times the quantity to which it is attached is taken as a term. Coeffi. cients may be numerical or literal. In commutative algebra, different elements may be thus taken; e.g., in “ axy. " a may be taken as the coefficient of xy, ax as that of y, etc. In common usage, the coefficient precedes the quantity which is taken as the base of the expre ion.