1. the quality or state of having multiple meanings, interpretations, or applications
Usage: formal; academic
2. the capacity of an atom or ion to combine with a varying number of other atoms
Usage: chemistry

Examples

• The polyvalence of the symbol made it suitable for multiple cultural contexts.
• Literary critics praised the poem’s polyvalence and rich layers of meaning.
• The artist’s work demonstrates a polyvalence that appeals to diverse audiences.
• Iron exhibits polyvalence, forming compounds with different oxidation states.
• The polyvalence of certain metals makes them useful in various chemical reactions.
• Scholars debated the polyvalence of the ancient text’s interpretation.