delta

del•ta

[[t]ˈdɛl tə[/t]] n. pl. -tas

1) ling. the fourth letter of the Greek alphabet (Δ, δ)

2) the fourth in a series of items

3) anything triangular, like the Greek capital delta (Δ)

4) Math. an incremental change in a variable, as Δ or δ

5) geo a nearly flat plain of alluvial, often triangular, deposit between diverging branches of the mouth of a river

6) astron. (cap.) a star that is usu. the fourth brightest of a constellation:

Delta Crucis[/ex]

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Etymology: 1350–1400; ME < L < Gk délta; akin to Heb dāleth del•ta′ic -ˈteɪ ɪk adj.