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Integer Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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integer

[ˈɪn.tə.dʒər ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics, computing

An integer is a whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero. Unlike fractions or decimals, integers do not have any fractional parts. They are commonly used in various fields including mathematics and computer science.

Synonyms

entire number, integer number, whole number.

Examples of usage

  • The set of integers includes -3, 0, and 5.
  • You can perform various operations on integers, such as addition and multiplication.
  • An integer cannot be expressed as a fraction.
  • In programming, integers are often utilized for indexing and counting.
  • When considering a number line, integers are spaced evenly at every whole number.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Integral mathematics is fundamental in arithmetic, representing numbers that are whole without any parts.
  • Integers are a key concept in number theory, helping with prime numbers and factorization.
  • They are used in computer programming to define data types that store whole numbers without decimals.

Historical Origins

  • The term comes from the Latin word 'integer', meaning whole or untouched, indicating completeness.
  • Early mathematicians, including the Babylonians, recognized the importance of whole numbers in their calculations.
  • In ancient Greece, Pythagoras and others examined properties of integers, leading to developments in number theory.

Pop Culture

  • Integers frequently appear in games, where scores or levels are often represented using whole numbers.
  • Movies or shows featuring puzzles or riddles often challenge characters with problems requiring integer solutions.
  • Many apps and platforms use integers for ratings, such as 1 to 5 stars, engaging audiences through numerical feedback.

Science

  • In physics, integers can describe discrete quantities, like the number of atoms in a molecule.
  • Researchers analyze data sets using whole numbers for accurate statistical reporting and analysis.
  • Inflation rates, population counts, and other key statistics are typically expressed in whole numbers.

Games and Sports

  • Board games often use integers for scoring, which helps players see who is winning.
  • In sports, points scored and statistics like home runs or goals are typically reported as integers.
  • Video games heavily rely on integer values to track player health, experience points, and levels.

Origin of 'integer'

The word 'integer' comes from the Latin word 'integer', which means 'whole' or 'untouched'. It was derived from the prefix 'in-' meaning 'not', combined with 'tangere', which means 'to touch'. The term has been used in mathematical contexts since the Middle Ages to refer to whole numbers. In modern mathematics, integers are defined as the set of positive and negative whole numbers, along with zero. This definition was solidified in the development of number theory during the 19th century, where integers have come to play a vital role in various mathematical disciplines such as algebra, calculus, and computer science.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,609 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.