# integer

/ˈɪntədʒɝ/ (US) · /ˈɪntɪdʒɐ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/integer
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a whole number that does not have a fraction or a decimal part. It can be positive, negative, or zero.

For teachers: a member of the set of whole numbers, including zero and negative equivalents. Contrasted with fractions and irrational numbers.

## Examples

- The number five is an integer, but five point five is not.
- When writing the code, ensure the variable only accepts an integer to avoid errors with decimal points.
- In many programming languages, dividing one integer by another will result in a truncated whole number unless the programmer specifies a floating-point output.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in mathematical and computing contexts; often paired with 'positive', 'negative', or 'consecutive'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.