Summable Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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summable

[ˈsʌməbəl ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

mathematical term

Capable of being added together. Able to be summed.

Synonyms

addable, combinable, totalable.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
summable	Used in mathematics or technical contexts to describe things that can be summed or added together. The series is summable if its sum converges to a certain value. Certain infinite sequences are not summable.
addable	Generally applicable when discussing things that can be added together; less formal than 'summable' and rarely used in everyday conversation. The points in this game are addable, so we can easily calculate the total score. These measurements are addable, giving us a combined total.
combinable	Refers to items, elements or substances that can be combined together to form a single unit or mixture. This term is often used outside of mathematics, such as in chemistry, cooking, or general discussions. The ingredients are combinable to make a delicious dish. These software modules are combinable for a more comprehensive tool.
totalable	Used to describe something that can be totaled or summed up, often in casual or less formal situations. This term is not commonly used. The expenses are totalable for our monthly budget. These values are totalable to give us the final amount.

Examples of usage

These two numbers are summable.
The values are not summable in this equation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

In mathematics, a series of numbers is considered 'summable' if it converges to a specific value when added together.
The study of summable functions is essential in calculus, particularly in understanding integrals and limits.
Not all infinite sequences of numbers are summable; for example, divergent series do not have a finite sum.

Computer Science

In programming, the concept of 'summable' can refer to data types that support addition, like integers and floats.
Functional programming languages often have built-in functions to operate on 'summable' collections easily, such as lists or arrays.
Adding up large datasets efficiently is a critical area of study in data science and computer algorithms.

Psychology

People tend to view summable tasks (like counting) as easier and more manageable, which can enhance motivation.
Breaking large projects into summable parts can reduce stress and improve focus, as each small part feels like an accomplishment.
The ability to sum and compile information quickly is linked to cognitive skills and intelligence measures.

Education

In educational settings, learning to recognize which numbers are summable helps students build foundational math skills.
Interactive games often use summable elements to teach children addition in a fun and engaging way.
Teachers apply concepts of summable quantities in subjects beyond math, like measuring ingredients in cooking classes.

Origin of 'summable'

Main points about word origin

The word 'summable' comes from the root 'sum,' which is from the Latin 'summa,' meaning 'highest' or 'total.'
First recorded use of 'summable' in English was around the early 20th century when mathematical concepts were expanding.
Related words include 'summation' which refers to the process of adding things together.

The word 'summable' is derived from the verb 'sum', which comes from the Latin word 'summa' meaning 'total'. It is commonly used in mathematics to describe elements that can be added together to produce a sum.