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Glite Dictionary
Hindu numeral

Hindu numeral

3.3
A written symbol that shows one of the numbers 0 to 9
  • noun
  • /ˈhɪnduː ˈnjuːmərəl/
translation icon : número hindú
  • The transition from Roman numerals to Hindu numerals made arithmetic much easier.

Examples

  • In mathematics, a Hindu numeral system is essential.

  • The Hindu numerals are now used for counting and calculation worldwide.

  • The invention of Hindu numeral symbols revolutionized mathematics and commerce.

  • The Hindu numerals are widely used in many cultures.

  • The number 3 is represented by the Hindu numeral that resembles the letter 'E'.

  • The digit 5 is one of the Hindu numerals used in our everyday counting.

  • Many students learn the Hindu numeral system as part of their basic mathematics curriculum.

Synonyms

digit
vsHindu numeral
194 1.0

One of the symbols zero to nine used to write numbers

is the same single characters but named for Indian origin
numeral
vsHindu numeral
14 3.4

A word or symbol that shows a number

is the specific group of ten decimal signs originating in India
Arabic numeral
vsHindu numeral
1 1.0

A symbol from 0 to 9 used to write numbers

is the same symbol set but notes origin in India
Hindu-Arabic numeral
vsHindu numeral
2.1

A symbol for the numbers zero to nine used in decimal counting

is the same symbols but emphasizes origin in India

Surface Forms

Hindu numeral singular
Hindu numerals plural

Morphology

Hindu + numeral

The meaning is directly derivable from the parts: 'Hindu' (from India) + 'numeral' (a written number sign) clearly signals numerals associated with India (i.e. the digits 0–9). This is a compositional, referential label rather than an idiom, so a B1 learner who knows both words will readily understand it.

Etymology

Hindu numeral comes from the fact that these number symbols were first used in India and were later brought to Europe by Arab traders and teachers. That's why the term refers to the ten symbols '0' to '9' we use today for 'counting' and doing 'maths'.