The term "equivalent" can have different meanings depending on the context. Here are some definitions and examples of the term:

• Equal in value or amount: Something that is the same amount, price, size, etc. as something else or has the same purpose as something else. For example, $50 is equivalent to about £30.

• Similar but not identical: In math, equivalent means similar but not identical. For example, 2 is said to be equal to 2 but equivalent to 1 + 1. Equivalent ratios are those which can express a similar or the same relationship between numbers or values.

• Equal in value or function: Having the same chemical combining capacity or the same solution set. For example, equivalent quantities of two elements have the same chemical combining capacity.

• Equal in effect or function: Corresponding or virtually identical especially in effect or function. For example, an equivalent course at another university is a course that is similar in content and level to the course being referred to.

• Equal in value or quantity but different in form: Equivalent fractions are fractions that have different numerators and denominators but are equal to the same value. For example, 2/4 and 3/6 are equivalent fractions because they both are equal to 1/2.

In summary, "equivalent" generally refers to two or more things that are equal or similar in some way, depending on the context.