1. in a manner that does not follow a straight line or direct path; not in a linear fashion
Usage: commonly used in mathematics, physics, and engineering contexts
2. in a way that does not progress in a simple, sequential, or proportional manner
Usage: used in general contexts to describe non-sequential or non-proportional relationships

Examples

• The system behaves nonlinearly when the input exceeds a certain threshold.
• The relationship between temperature and reaction rate changes nonlinearly.
• The plot progresses nonlinearly, jumping between past and present events.
• The function grows nonlinearly, accelerating as x increases.
• The data points are distributed nonlinearly across the graph.
• The narrative unfolds nonlinearly through a series of flashbacks.