real number

[ ree-uhl, reel ]

noun

, Mathematics.

1. a rational number or the limit of a sequence of rational numbers, as opposed to a complex number.

real number

noun

1. a number expressible as a limit of rational numbers See number

real number

/ rē′əl /

1. A number that can be written as a terminating or nonterminating decimal; a rational or irrational number. The numbers 2, −12.5, 3 7 , and pi (π) are all real numbers.

Word History and Origins

Origin of real number¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

It's generally estimated that around 10% of pregnant people struggle to meet their nutritional needs -- but the real number could be far higher, according to new research from Stevens Institute of Technology.

From Science Daily

But while the political rhetoric around crime is powerful, critics say it actually has little to do with real numbers.

From BBC

Dan Neidle, an independent tax expert, says the real number of farms likely to be affected could be below 500 per year.

From BBC

In the end, Alcala was found guilty of seven murders, though it’s believed the real number of people he killed is significantly higher.

From Los Angeles Times

"If it does get completed in time, I can imagine only Russian tourists and possibly Chinese visiting in any real numbers at first," he said.

From BBC