kappa

noun

kap·​pa ˈka-pə How to pronounce kappa (audio)
: the 10th letter of the Greek alphabet see Alphabet Table

Examples of kappa in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Turmeric also prevents the body from making NF kappa-B, which is one of the primary causes for UTIs and bladder infections. Amber Smith, Discover Magazine, 18 Oct. 2022 These trials had a system to describe different kappa values: for example, 0.6-0.8 was 'satisfactory'. Neuroskeptic, Discover Magazine, 13 Jan. 2013

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'kappa.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English, from Greek, of Semitic origin; akin to Hebrew kaph

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of kappa was in the 15th century

Dictionary Entries Near kappa

Cite this Entry

“Kappa.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/kappa. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

kappa

noun
kap·​pa ˈkap-ə How to pronounce kappa (audio)
: the 10th letter of the Greek alphabet
Κ or κ

Medical Definition

kappa

noun
kap·​pa ˈkap-ə How to pronounce kappa (audio)
: a cytoplasmic factor in certain paramecia that mediates production of paramecin and thereby makes the medium in which such microorganisms are grown toxic to members of strains not possessing the factor see paramecin

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