quantifier

noun

quan·​ti·​fi·​er ˈkwän-tə-ˌfī(-ə)r How to pronounce quantifier (audio)
: one that quantifies: such as
a
: a prefixed operator that binds the variables in a logical formula by specifying their quantity
b
: a limiting noun modifier (such as five in "the five young men") expressive of quantity and characterized by occurrence before the descriptive adjectives in a noun phrase

Examples of quantifier in a Sentence

“Five” in “the five men” is a quantifier.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Even without quantifiers, leveraging compelling action words remains paramount in showcasing your capabilities effectively. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2024 Is there a way a quantifier can be applied? Brandon Pena, Forbes, 19 May 2022 The research could be a major step forward in ocean greenhouse gas monitoring, because until now, measuring CO2 concentrations — a quantifier of ocean acidification — was mostly done from ships, buoys and moorings tethered to the ocean floor. Mark Thiessen, Anchorage Daily News, 25 May 2022 Here’s an example of a problem with alternating quantifiers: Given X, does there exist Y such that for every Z there exists W such that R happens? Quanta Magazine, 16 July 2018 The New York Times profile on Harris also uses Sanders supporters as some sort of quantifier of success. Michael Arceneaux, Essence.com, 24 July 2017

Word History

First Known Use

1876, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of quantifier was in 1876

Dictionary Entries Near quantifier

Cite this Entry

“Quantifier.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/quantifier. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on quantifier

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!