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  • Word comparison: whole number vs. integer

whole number vs. integer

whole number vs. integer: 's the difference?

All whole numbers are integers, but not all integers are whole numbers. Whole number (or counting number) refers to all positive numbers that are not fractions and zero. Integer refers to whole numbers in addition to negative numbers (such as -5). Both terms contrast with fractions (such as ¾) and decimals (such as 1.65).

whole number

noun

Mathematics.
  1. Also called counting number. one of the positive integers or zero; any of the numbers (0, 1, 2, 3, …).
  2. (loosely) integer ( def 1 ).

integer

noun

  1. Mathematics. one of the positive or negative numbers 1, 2, 3, etc., or zero. Compare whole number.
  2. a complete entity.

    Synonyms: ,

    Antonyms: ,