A
parameter (from the
Ancient Greek , "para", meaning "beside, subsidiary" and , "metron", meaning "measure"), in its common meaning, is a characteristic, feature, or measurable factor that can help in defining a particular system. A parameter is an important element to consider in evaluation or comprehension of an event, project, or situation.
Parameter has more specific interpretations in
mathematics,
logic,
linguistics,
environmental science, and other disciplines.