cardinal number

noun

: a number (such as 1, 2, or 3) that is used in simple counting and shows quantity

Full Definition of CARDINAL NUMBER

: a number (as 1, 5, 15) that is used in simple counting and that indicates how many elements there are in an assemblage — see number table

: the property that a mathematical set has in common with all sets that can be put in one-to-one correspondence with it

See cardinal number defined for English-language learners

See cardinal number defined for kids

1591

CARDINAL NUMBER Defined for Kids

noun

: a number (as 1, 5, 22) that is used in simple counting and answers the question “how many?”

Next Word in the Dictionary: cardinal pointPrevious Word in the Dictionary: cardinalityAll Words Near: cardinal number

What made you want to look up cardinal number? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).

Put-downs with flair

How to use a word that (literally) drives some people nuts.

Test your vocab with our fun, fast game

Ailurophobia, and 9 other unusual fears