Operand

usgb/ˈɑːpərænd/
noun

In computing and mathematics, the operand is the object of a mathematical operation. It is the value or variable that is manipulated or used in an operation.

In the equation 3 + 4 = 7, 3 and 4 are operands, and + is the operator.
Visual representation of "operand" - In computing and mathematics, the operand is the object of a mathematical operation. It is the value or variable that is manipulated or used in an operation.

Often appears as...

  • binary operand
  • unary operand

Usage tips

Technical

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "operand"
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Mathematical Context

In math, 'operand' refers to numbers involved in calculations, not to procedures or methods.

Illustration for Mathematical Context
In 5 * 2 = 10, both 5 and 2 are operands.
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Computing Usage

In programming, operands can be variables, numbers or data that operations act upon.

Illustration for Computing Usage
In the code 'result = operand1 + operand2', 'operand1' and 'operand2' are operands.
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Operation Types

Operands can be part of unary operations (one operand) or binary operations (two operands).

Illustration for Operation Types
'-number' has a unary operator with 'number' as its operand.
Visual representation of the word "Operand"

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