English Equivalents of Eigenfunktion and Eigenwert

Abstract

IN publications dealing with wave mechanics there is a growing practice of rendering the words Eigenfunktion and Eigenwert into English by eigen-function and eigen-value respectively. The English expressions proper function and proper value are equally concise, correspond exactly in etymology to the originals, and have the sanction of Prof. Schrödinger himself in the English lectures which he gave at the Royal Institution. Is it not desirable, therefore, that we should discontinue the use of the mixed forms, which is a barbarism without sense or convenience, and equally repellent to German and to English ears?