WordGarden.ioundefined
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /ˌʌndɪfˈaɪnd/
US
- /ˌəndɪˈfaɪnd/
Meanings
Adjective
not clearly stated, fixed, or given a definite meaning
having no assigned value or missing a valid definition in software or code
having no defined value or valid result in mathematics
Noun
the special value used in some programming languages for something with no assigned value
Beyond the definition
"Undefined" often feels like a mathematical mystery. It usually appears when a problem hits a wall, like when you try to divide a number by zero. In math, an undefined result means the operation does not have a valid answer within the rules. But the word is not just for math. Something is "undefined" if its meaning is unclear or has not been decided yet. A character in a movie might have an "undefined" reason for acting a certain way, leaving us guessing. Or if a company's role for a new employee is still "undefined," it means the details have not been worked out yet.
The word "undefined" is used when something does not have a clear meaning, value, or limit. Many people first meet it in math. An "undefined" result appears when a calculation cannot be given a valid answer under the usual rules, with division by zero being the best-known example. In that case, the result is not treated as an ordinary number, so it is left without a value.
However, "undefined" extends far beyond the classroom. It can describe anything that lacks a clear boundary, explanation, or fixed character. An idea can be "undefined" if people have not agreed on what it really means. A situation can be "undefined" when its outcome is still uncertain and no clear decision has been made. In computer programming, "undefined" often refers to something that has no assigned value or whose behavior is not specified in a clear way, depending on the language and context.
Whether it points to a mathematical limit or to a simple lack of clarity, "undefined" marks something that is still open, unresolved, or not clearly set. It is a useful word for moments when the rules stop, the meaning is missing, or the details have not yet been filled in.
Examples
- 1
Rules
The rules are still undefined, so everyone is doing things differently.
- 2
Relationship status
Their relationship stayed undefined for months.
- 3
Contract terms
The contract leaves several key terms undefined.
- 4
Math result
In math, the result is undefined when you divide by zero.
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Programming value
The function returned `undefined` because no value was passed in.
- Domainin programming, `undefined`
no value has been set or given
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
Contrast
Used with (collocations)
- undefined term
- undefined variable
- undefined behavior
- undefined boundaries
Word family
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Forms and spellings
1 form open this card.
Main spelling
- undefinedadjective