free variable
A 'free variable' is fundamental in fields like mathematics, logic, and computer science, signifying a variable not constrained by specific definitions within an expression or scope.
Definition
C1Mathematics and Logic
(technical, academic)A variable in an expression or formula that is not limited by a quantifier or operator, allowing it to take any value within its domain.
Example
- In the expression ∫₀^∞ x^(y-1) e^(-x) dx, y is a free variable because it is not bound by the integral.
C1Computer Science
(technical, academic)A variable used in a function or scope but not declared within that function or passed as an argument.
Example
- In the function definition, 'y' is a free variable since it is not declared within the function.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "free variable":
independent variablehidden variablerandom variablefree floatfree spacefree energyfree ballfree and easygo freedegree of freedomfree handmake free withfree worldunknown quantityfree willfree listdependent variablefree use