undefined

Everyday

1. Undefined means not clearly explained, described or fixed, like an undefined plan. tree →
2. Undefined means without a clear shape or outline. tree →
3. (maths) A calculation is undefined when it has no meaning or answer, like dividing a number by zero. tree →
4. (computing) A variable or value is undefined when it has not been given a value yet. tree →

In the lessons

Important in maths: «6 ÷ 0 is undefined», because no number times 0 gives 6. In computing lessons, «undefined» appears as an error when something has no value. In everyday talk: «an undefined role» means nobody said exactly what the job is.

Examples

• Dividing a number by zero is undefined. tree →
• The shape had undefined edges in the fog. tree →
• Her job in the team was still undefined. tree →
• The program printed «undefined» because the box was empty. tree →
• The rules of the new game were undefined, so we argued. tree →
• The muscles were undefined under his baggy shirt. tree →
• He was the first {212} to introduce the art of sculpture in its higher development, for before his time statues were merely rude representations, having the limbs altogether undefined. tree →

Note

In maths, «undefined» is not the same as 0: 0 ÷ 6 = 0, but 6 ÷ 0 is undefined. «Define» means to give the exact meaning. Opposite: «defined».