ˈbaɪəs n. & v. --n. 1 (often foll. by
towards, against) a predisposition or
prejudice. 2
Statistics a
systematic distortion of a
statistical result due to a
factor not allowed
for in
its derivation. 3 an
edge cut obliquely
across the weave of a
fabric. 4
Sport a the
irregular shape given to a bowl. b the
oblique course this causes it to
run. 5 Electr. a
steady voltage,
magnetic field,
etc.,
applied to an
electronic system or
device. --v.tr. (biased, biasing; biassed, biassing) 1 (esp. as biased adj.)
influence (usu. unfairly); prejudice. 2
give a bias
to. øbias
binding a strip of fabric cut obliquely
and used to
bind edges. on the bias obliquely, diagonally. [F biais, of unkn. orig.]