Unsigned: meaning, definitions and examples
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unsigned
[ ʌnˈsaɪnd ]
computer programming
In computer programming, 'unsigned' refers to a data type that can only represent non-negative values. This means that the variable cannot hold any negative numbers, allowing for a larger range of positive values compared to a signed data type. Unsigned integers are commonly used in scenarios where only positive values are needed, such as counting or indexing. Therefore, an unsigned integer increases the maximum value that can be stored.
Synonyms
non-negative, positive, unsigned integer
Examples of usage
- unsigned int count = 10;
- The variable was declared as unsigned.
- We use unsigned values for memory addresses.
Translations
Translations of the word "unsigned" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sem sinal
🇮🇳 अंकित नहीं
🇩🇪 nicht signiert
🇮🇩 tidak ditandatangani
🇺🇦 недосвідчений
🇵🇱 niesigned
🇯🇵 署名なし
🇫🇷 non signé
🇪🇸 sin firma
🇹🇷 imzalanmamış
🇰🇷 서명 없음
🇸🇦 غير موقع
🇨🇿 nepodpisovaný
🇸🇰 nepodpísaný
🇨🇳 未签名
🇸🇮 nepodpisan
🇮🇸 ósignað
🇰🇿 қол қойылмаған
🇬🇪 არასაიმედო
🇦🇿 imzalanmamış
🇲🇽 sin firma
Etymology
The term 'unsigned' has its roots in computing and programming languages. The prefix 'un-' denotes the negation of something, while 'signed' refers to a variable's ability to hold both positive and negative values. In early computing environments, memory and data representation became crucial, leading to the distinction between signed and unsigned integers. The development of programming languages and standards in the late 20th century solidified the usage of 'unsigned' as a standard term, particularly in languages like C and C++. Throughout its evolution, 'unsigned' has been integral in enhancing data efficiency and accuracy in representation by allowing programmers to better utilize available storage for numerical data.