Read the dictionary definition of equivalent. All definitions for this word.
1. the atomic weight of an element that has the same combining capacity as a given weight of another element; the standard is 8 for oxygen
2. a person or thing equal to another in value or measure or force or effect or significance etc
1. send two dollars or the equivalent in stamps
3. being essentially equal to something
1. it was as good as gold
2. a wish that was equivalent to a command
3. his statement was tantamount to an admission of guilt