(economics) The increase in cost that accompanies a unit increase in output; the partial derivative of the cost function with respect to output.

Any mathematical relationship between an activity and its cost.

(accounting) The purpose for which costs are measured.

(business) The end cost of an internationally shipped item. This includes purchase price, freight, insurance, and other costs and may sometimes include duties and taxes.

The property of being cost-effective.

Returning a benefit that justifies the initial investment; economical.

(real estate, usually in the plural) The costs that are incurred in assessing that products/services conform to the requirements. It relates to testing, executing, and examination to assess whether specified quality is being maintained. Some example component items of the total appraisal costs are: product quality audits, process control monitoring, inspection and testing of goods, and maintenance of test equipment.

Describing an index or an increase in payment etc that is dependent upon the cost of living

The average cost of a standard set of basic necessities of life, especially of food, shelter and clothing.

(economics) A cost that has already been incurred and which cannot be recovered to any significant degree.