1. the combining power of an element, especially as measured by the number of hydrogen atoms it can displace or combine with
Usage: chemistry
2. the degree of attractiveness an individual, activity, or thing possesses as a behavioral goal
Usage: psychology

Examples

• Carbon has a valence of four, allowing it to form four chemical bonds.
• The valence of oxygen is typically two in most compounds.
• Students learned about valence electrons in their chemistry class.
• The psychologist studied the valence of different rewards on behavior.
• Positive valence indicates something is attractive or desirable.
• The valence of sodium is one, making it highly reactive.
• Researchers measured the emotional valence of various stimuli.