an arithmetical value, expressed by a word, symbol, or figure, representing a quantity, especially a real one, a quantity or amount, a single issue of a magazine or newspaper

do a number on someone, crunch the numbers, back the wrong horse

phone number, serial number, lucky number

Formal and Informal Expressions of number

In different contexts, you can replace 'number' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'quantity, amount' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'stuff, thing' is a commonplace synonym.

number: Explore its Definition & Usage

number Definition

1an arithmetical value, expressed by a word, symbol, or figure, representing a quantity, especially a real one
2a quantity or amount
3a single issue of a magazine or newspaper

Using number: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "number" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The number of students in the class is 30.
Example
I have a large number of books to read.
Example
The latest issue of the magazine is number 50.

number Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for number

Antonyms for number

Idioms Using number

do a number on someone
to deceive, cheat, or harm someone
Example
He did a number on me by selling me a faulty product.
crunch the numbers
to perform a mathematical calculation
Example
We need to crunch the numbers before making a decision.
back the wrong horse
to support someone or something that is unlikely to succeed
Example
I think you're backing the wrong horse with that investment.

Phrases with number

phone number
a sequence of digits used to call a particular telephone
Example
Can I have your phone number?
serial number
a unique number assigned for identification purposes
Example
The serial number of the product is printed on the back.
lucky number
a number that is believed to bring good luck
Example
My lucky number is seven.

Origins of number

from Old French 'nombre', from Latin 'numerus'

📌

Summary: number in Brief

The term 'number' [ˈnʌmbər] refers to an arithmetical value that represents a quantity, such as 'The number of students in the class is 30.' It also denotes a single issue of a magazine or newspaper, as in 'The latest issue of the magazine is number 50.' 'Number' extends into phrases like 'phone number,' and idioms like 'do a number on someone,' meaning to deceive or harm. 'Crunch the numbers' means to perform a mathematical calculation, while 'back the wrong horse' means to support something unlikely to succeed.