numerical

adjective

nu·​mer·​i·​cal nu̇-ˈmer-i-kəl 

nyu̇-

1

: of or relating to numbers

the numerical superiority of the enemy

2

: expressed in or involving numbers or a number system

numerical standing in a class

a numerical code

numerically

nu̇-ˈmer-i-k(ə-)lē 

nyu̇-

adverb

Examples of numerical in a Sentence

The files are organized according to a numerical system.

The files are in numerical order.

Recent Examples on the Web

Summary The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is proposing a significant overhaul of its grant review process, moving away from transparent numerical scores for applicants. — Bruce Y. Lee, Forbes.com, 15 Aug. 2026

For decades, weather prediction has relied on numerical models running on supercomputers that simulate atmospheric physics. — Reuters, NBC news, 11 Aug. 2026

Testing is available with different numerical scales, and my score, at age 51, fell within the middle of the top tier. — Mark Ellwood, Robb Report, 9 Aug. 2026

Parameters refer to the numerical settings that shape how AI processes information and generates responses. — Sawdah Bhaimiya, CNBC, 3 Aug. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin numerus number entry 1 + -ical

First Known Use

1628, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing numerical

• numerical analysis
• numerical taxonomy

Rhymes for numerical

• chimerical
• hysterical
• anticlerical
• hemispherical
• clerical
• spherical

Kids Definition

numerical

adjective

nu·​mer·​i·​cal n(y)u̇-ˈmer-i-kəl 

1

: of or relating to numbers

2

: shown in or involving numbers or a number system

numerical order

numerically

-k(ə-)lē 

adverb