A figure of merit is a quantitative measure used to evaluate the performance or quality of a system, device, or process. It often serves as a comparative metric to assess different options or alternatives in various fields, including engineering and science. While the term can encompass various definitions depending on the context, it is not inherently mathematical. Examples of figures of merit can include efficiency ratios, signal-to-noise ratios, or cost-effectiveness indices. Understanding the specific application is crucial for accurately interpreting a figure of merit.