averages

[ˈævərɪdʒɪz]

averages Definition

• 1. a number expressing the central or typical value in a set of data, in particular the mode, median, or (most commonly) the mean, which is calculated by dividing the sum of the values in the set by their number
• 2. a result that is typical or common

Using averages: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "averages" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The average of 2, 3, and 5 is 3.33.

• Example

  The average age of the students in the class is 20.

• Example

  The company's profits are above/below the industry average.

• Example

  On average, it takes about 30 minutes to complete the test.

averages Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for averages

• mean
• median
• mode
• norm
• standard

Phrases with averages

• above/below average

  better or worse than what is typical or expected

  Example

  Her grades are above average for her age group.

• average out

  to become or make something become more typical or normal

  Example

  The weather should average out to be around 70 degrees this week.

• take the average

  to calculate the mean or typical value of a set of data

  Example

  To determine the average, add up all the numbers and divide by the total count.

Origins of averages

from Old French 'avarie', meaning 'damage to ship or goods'

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Summary: averages in Brief

'Averages' [ˈævərɪdʒɪz] refer to a number expressing the central or typical value in a set of data, usually calculated as the mean. It can also denote a result that is typical or common, as in 'The company's profits are above/below the industry average.' Phrases like 'above/below average' and 'average out' use 'average' to describe something better or worse than what is typical or expected.