number

[ˈnʌmbər]

number Definition

• 1. an arithmetical value, expressed by a word, symbol, or figure, representing a quantity, especially a real one
• 2. a quantity or amount
• 3. a 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

• figure
• digit
• integer
• amount
• quantity

Antonyms for number

• zero
• nothingness

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'

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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.