Numeric

Part of speech: adjective

Pronunciation: /n(j)uːˈmɛɹɪk/

Definitions

1. A method or system to express amounts, values, or counts using digits or figures
2. A representation system that conveys quantities, values, or counts through the utilization of digits or numeral symbols
3. A system for conveying values, amounts, or counts through symbols or digits is essential in mathematics and technology

Etymology: The adjective "numeric" is a borrowing from French "numérique", which in turn descends from Latin "numerus", meaning "number". That Latin noun traces back to a root shared by the Latin "nomen" ("name"), a connection that reflects the old idea that a number was a kind of label or count of things. The French adjective was formed by adding the suffix "-ique" (from Latin "-icus", a suffix meaning "relating to" or "having the character of") to the noun. English took the word from French, so it entered the language as a learned, technical term rather than through everyday speech. Its meaning stayed close to its Latin roots: a numeric system is one that expresses quantities through digits or numerals. The word is now most often heard in phrases such as "numeric keypad" or "numeric value", where it contrasts with words built on letters or other symbols.

Synonyms: numerical, quantitative, arithmetic

Antonyms: non-numeric, alphanumeric