mantissa

[/mænˈtɪsə/]
nounfemininepl: mantissas
mantissa
1. The fractional part of a logarithm, representing the decimal portion after the characteristic
In the logarithm 3.4567, the mantissa is 0.4567
No logaritmo 3.4567, a mantissa é 0.4567
2. In scientific notation, the coefficient or significant figures of a number expressed in floating-point form
The mantissa of 6.022 × 10²³ is 6.022
A mantissa de 6.022 × 10²³ é 6.022
3. The fractional part of a real number in computer floating-point representation
The CPU processes the mantissa separately from the exponent
A CPU processa a mantissa separadamente do expoente
Mantissa is a specialized mathematical and computational term used primarily in academic and technical contexts. It originated from Latin meaning 'makeweight' or 'addition.' While not commonly used in everyday conversation in either English or Portuguese-speaking countries, it is fundamental in mathematics, engineering, and computer science education and professional practice.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
significandcoefficientfractional part
Antonyms / Antônimos
characteristicexponent

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
mantissa
Standard mathematical term used in mathematics and computer science education
Portugal
mantissa
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese in mathematical and technical contexts
USA
mantissa
Common in mathematics, engineering, and computing fields

Related Words

logarithmexponentfloating-pointscientific notationcoefficient
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