Numbering Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🔢
Add to dictionary

numbering

[ˈnʌmbərɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The process or an instance of assigning a number to something for purposes of identification, reference, or calculation.

Synonyms

counting, indexing, labeling.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
numbering

Best used when you are assigning consecutive numbers to items or pages.

  • The pages of the book need proper numbering for easy reference
  • The manager is responsible for numbering the seats in the auditorium
labeling

Used when assigning names or tags to items for identification purposes.

  • We need to start labeling the jars before storing them
  • The laboratory technician is labeling the samples for testing
indexing

Typically used when referring to the process of creating an index, usually for reference or searching purposes.

  • The librarian is busy indexing the new books
  • The software helps in indexing all the documents for easy retrieval
counting

Appropriate when referring to the process of determining the total number of items.

  • She spent an hour counting the money in the cash register
  • The teacher asked the students to start counting the apples on the table

Examples of usage

  • The numbering of pages in a book
  • The numbering of houses on a street
Context #2 | Verb

action

To designate or assign numbers to in order to identify, categorize, or count.

Synonyms

code, label, tag.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
numbering

Used when referring to numbering items sequentially, often in lists or documents.

  • The chapters in the book have a consistent numbering system.
  • Ensure proper numbering for all the pages.
label

Refers to identifying or naming something for organizational purposes, commonly used for products and categorization.

  • Remember to label all the jars before storing them.
  • Each file has a label for easy identification.
code

Applied in the context of computer programming, scripts, or symbolic systems.

  • She needs to debug the code before the product launch.
  • The code for the alarm system was complicated.
tag

Often associated with labeling but in a more informal or digital context, such as naming items in social media or tracking products.

  • She tagged all her friends in the post.
  • The new shipment of clothes needs price tags.

Examples of usage

  • We will be numbering the seats for the event
  • Please make sure to number the documents before submitting them

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Numbering is fundamental in mathematics, forming the backbone for operations like addition and subtraction.
  • Different numbering systems exist, such as binary for computers and decimal for everyday use.
  • In set theory, numbering helps in organizing and identifying collections of objects.

Cultural Significance

  • Many cultures have unique ways of numbering that influence their calendars and rituals, like the Chinese lunar calendar.
  • In some traditions, specific numbers are considered lucky or unlucky, affecting people's lives and decisions.
  • Countries may have different methods for numbering formats, such as how street addresses or phone numbers are structured.

Technology

  • Numbering systems are vital in programming and coding, allowing computers to process data efficiently.
  • In databases, numbering is used for indexing, helping to quickly retrieve information from large sets.
  • With the emergence of big data, numbering enables effective analysis and visualization of complex datasets.

Education

  • Learning to count is one of the first skills taught to children, laying the foundation for more complex math.
  • Numbering plays a key role in organizing educational materials, such as textbooks and assignments.
  • Research shows that students who grasp numbering concepts early tend to excel in higher-level math.

Origin of 'numbering'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'number' comes from the Latin 'numerus,' meaning a count or quantity.
  • In Old French, 'nombrer' meant to count, which contributed to the word 'numbering.'
  • The use of numbers dates back to ancient civilizations, where counting was essential for trade and agriculture.

The word 'numbering' originates from the Middle English word 'numbren', which in turn comes from Old French 'nombrer' and ultimately from the Latin 'numerare', meaning 'to count'. The concept of numbering has been essential in various fields such as mathematics, linguistics, and technology.


See also: enumerable, innumerable, numberable, numbers, numerous.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #9,941 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.