Variable: meaning, definitions and examples

🔢

Add to dictionary

variable

[ˈvɛːrɪəb(ə)l ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

programming

A variable is a storage location identified by a memory address where a value can be stored, retrieved, or manipulated.

Synonyms

container, identifier, placeholder.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
variable	Commonly used in programming and mathematics to represent elements that can change value. It is a core concept in coding to store information that can be manipulated. In JavaScript, you can declare a variable using the 'let' keyword The variable 'x' can store different numbers during the execution of the program
identifier	Used to name variables, functions, classes, or any other programming entities. Identifiers are crucial for code readability and maintainability. The identifier 'userName' helps to store and reference the name of a user in a program
placeholder	Often used in user interfaces or documentation to show where actual data or content will be placed. It helps in indicating the expected input or in reserving space. In a form, you might see the text 'Enter your email' as a placeholder in the input field
container	Typically used to describe an object or device that holds multiple items or elements, both physical and abstract. In programming, it may refer to data structures like arrays, lists, or even classes that encapsulate data and functionality. A container can be a box holding books or a data structure like a list holding elements in Python

Examples of usage

In programming, variables are commonly used to store data such as numbers, strings, or objects.
The value of a variable can change during the execution of a program.
Variables are essential for controlling the flow and logic of a program.
Programmers need to declare variables before using them in their code.
Understanding the concept of variables is fundamental in learning how to write code effectively.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

mathematics

In mathematics, a variable is a symbol (usually a letter) that represents a number or a quantity that may vary.

Synonyms

parameter, placeholder, unknown.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
variable	Used in mathematics, statistics, computer programming, and sciences to represent a value that can change. In the equation y = 2x + 3, x and y are variables. Create a variable in your code to store the user's input.
unknown	Typically used in mathematics and statistics to represent an element that is not yet identified or determined. Solve for the unknown variable in this equation. The cause of the problem is still unknown.
parameter	Commonly used in programming and mathematics to denote a limit or boundary, or in functions to represent an input that affects the output. The function takes two parameters: length and width. You need to adjust the parameters of the machine to make it work correctly.
placeholder	Used to indicate a temporary marker or space where actual data or content will be filled in later. Please replace the placeholder text with the actual information. In the template, '{name}' is a placeholder for the user's name.

Examples of usage

In the equation 2x + 5 = 15, x is the variable that can take different values.
Variables are used in algebra to solve equations and represent unknown values.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'variabilis', which means 'changeable'.
First recorded use in English dates back to the late 14th century, referring to something that can change.
In mathematics, the term has been used since the 16th century to describe quantities that can vary.

Science

In science, variables are essential for experiments, helping to show how one thing can affect another.
There are three main types of variables: independent (changed by the experimenter), dependent (measured), and controlled (kept the same).
Statistical analysis often involves many variables to understand complex relationships in data.

Pop Culture

In video games, a variable might be the player's health points, which change based on actions taken during gameplay.
Television shows often have characters with fluctuating emotional states, making them more interesting and relatable.
In popular songs, themes of love can be seen as variables that change based on the singer's experiences.

Literature

Authors often use variable settings, like time and place, to create dynamic stories.
Character development is frequently dependent on variable traits, showcasing growth or decline throughout the narrative.
Poetry uses various structures and forms, making verses a variable part of creative expression.

Psychology

In psychology, mood and behavior are considered variables influenced by a person's environment and experiences.
Cognitive flexibility involves adjusting one's thinking based on changing circumstances, which can be seen as managing cognitive variables.
Researchers often manipulate variables in studies to observe their effects on human behavior.

Translations

Translations of the word "variable" in other languages:

🇵🇹 variável

🇮🇳 चर

🇩🇪 Variable

🇮🇩 variabel

🇺🇦 змінна

🇵🇱 zmienna

🇯🇵 変数 (へんすう)

🇫🇷 variable

🇪🇸 variable

🇹🇷 değişken

🇰🇷 변수 (byeonsu)

🇸🇦 متغير

🇨🇿 proměnná

🇸🇰 premenná

🇨🇳 变量 (biànliàng)

🇸🇮 spremenljivka

🇮🇸 breyta

🇰🇿 өзгермелі

🇬🇪 ცვლადი (tsvladi)

🇦🇿 dəyişən

🇲🇽 variable

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,758, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.

...
1755 component
1756 edition
1757 mixed
1758 variable
1759 slow
1760 grow
1761 billion
...