real number

noun

: a number that has no imaginary part
the set of all real numbers comprises the rationals and the irrationals

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1909, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of real number was circa 1909

Dictionary Entries Near real number

Cite this Entry

“Real number.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/real%20number. Accessed 30 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

real number

noun
: a number (as −2, 3, ⅞, .25, 12, π) that is rational or irrational

More from Merriam-Webster on real number

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!