Definition

1. Noun:
   • A measure of a person's intelligence as indicated by an intelligence test: The "intelligence quotient" is a numerical score derived from standardized tests designed to assess human intelligence.
   • The ratio of a person's mental age to their chronological age (multiplied by 100): Historically, it was calculated by dividing the mental age (as determined by a test) by the chronological age and multiplying the result by 100 to obtain a whole number.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The psychologist explained that the child's intelligence quotient was above average.
  • A high intelligence quotient does not necessarily guarantee success in life.
  • The test is designed to estimate an individual's intelligence quotient.

Advanced Usage

• "To have a high/low intelligence quotient": to possess a high or low IQ score.
  • She is known to have a remarkably high intelligence quotient.
• "Intelligence quotient testing": the process of administering IQ tests.
  • The school district reviewed its policies on intelligence quotient testing.

Variants and Related Words

• IQ (noun): The common abbreviation for "intelligence quotient".
  • His IQ was measured at 130.
• Cognitive assessment (noun phrase): A broader term for evaluating mental functions, which may include IQ testing.

Synonyms

• IQ: The direct abbreviation.
• Mental age ratio: Refers to the original calculation method.

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the score from standardized tests. It is a psychometric construct and is distinct from broader concepts of intelligence, wisdom, or creativity.
• Its calculation and interpretation have been the subject of significant debate regarding cultural bias, validity, and what aspects of cognition it actually measures.

Noun

1. a measure of a person's intelligence as indicated by an intelligence test; the ratio of a person's mental age to their chronological age (multiplied by 100)