Unary: meaning, definitions and examples
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unary
[ ˈjuːnəri ]
mathematics
Unary refers to a mathematical operation or function that operates on a single operand. It is commonly used in programming and computer science to describe functions or operators that require only one input to produce a result.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The unary minus operator negates a number.
- In unary arithmetic, each number is represented as a sequence of symbols.
- Unary functions are often more efficient for certain types of calculations.
mathematics
A unary relation is a type of relation that involves only one set, typically used in logic and set theory. It provides a simple framework for evaluating properties of elements within a single collection.
Synonyms
unary operation, unary relation.
Examples of usage
- In database theory, a unary relation is a table with a single attribute.
- The unary relation R(x) can be interpreted as 'x is a prime number.'
- Understanding unary relations is essential for grasping more complex relational concepts.
Etymology
The term 'unary' is derived from the Latin root 'uni-' meaning 'one' and the suffix '-ary' which is used to form adjectives indicating a relation to. This term has been used in mathematical contexts since the 19th century, particularly as the fields of logic and arithmetic began to evolve with the formalization of numerical systems. Its adoption in programming languages also reflects the influence of mathematical principles in computer science, where unary operations are essential for efficiency in calculations and algorithms.