adjective

• 1Mathematics
  (of a function or quantity) varying in such a way that it either never decreases or never increases.

  ‘The S-N curve for a pure metal will be a monotonic function with N increasing as stress decreases.’

  More example sentences

  • ‘The number above each segment gives the rank of the absolute value of the monotonic increase or decrease.’
  • ‘The logarithm is only one of many nonlinear but monotonic functions that can be applied to measurements prior to analysis.’
  • ‘What leads us astray is the assumption that interval calculations can be based on end points alone, which is true only for monotonic functions.’
  • ‘In contrast to an undiluted probe surface, the hybridization signals exhibited a tendency of monotonic decrease with increasing ionic strength.’

• 2Speaking or uttered with an unchanging pitch or tone.

  More example sentences

  • ‘her dour, monotonic husband’