covariant

/kəˈvɛrɪənt/

Definitions

1. adjective

varying in a way that is consistent with a specific transformation or change

“In physics, the covariant formulation of Maxwell’s equations is more elegant and easier to work with.”

2. noun

a quantity that remains unchanged under a specified transformation

“The covariant is used in the derivation of Einstein’s field equations in general relativity.”

3. noun

a tensor field that transforms in a specific way under a change of coordinates

“The covariant tensor field is an important concept in differential geometry and general relativity.”

Synonyms

  • covariant quantity
  • invariant

Antonyms

  • independent
  • noncovariant