noun

hexadecimal

hek-suh-DES-ih-muhl

Quiz me More like this

Hexadecimal (noun) means a number system based on sixteen, using the digits 0 to 9 and the letters A to F. Example: “Hexadecimal is widely used in computing because each digit maps neatly onto four binary bits.”

noun

technical A number system based on sixteen, using the digits 0 to 9 and the letters A to F.

"Hexadecimal is widely used in computing because each digit maps neatly onto four binary bits."

"Web colour codes are usually written in hexadecimal."

"Programmers often convert binary values into hexadecimal to make them easier to read."

adjective

technical Expressed using the base-sixteen number system.

"The error code was given in hexadecimal form."

"She converted the decimal value into its hexadecimal equivalent."

"Each byte can be shown as a two-digit hexadecimal number."

How to use hexadecimal

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishA way of counting in sixteens instead of tens, using letters for the extra digits.

When to use it

Almost always used in technical or computing contexts rather than everyday speech.

Memory tip

Each hexadecimal digit stands for exactly four binary bits, which is why it is so useful in computing.

Trace the full origin ↓

Easily confused with

decimal →

Common pairings

hexadecimal number hexadecimal code hexadecimal digit convert to hexadecimal

Vocabulary Flow

Build your vocabulary from words like hexadecimal.

Vocabulary Flow serves the next word, and the next — meaning, pronunciation and an example each time. Practice at your level, or learn English in your own language.

Start vocabulary practice

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Test yourself on “hexadecimal” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage →

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

_____ is widely used in computing because each digit maps neatly onto four binary bits.

Etymology

The word was first recorded in 1952, formed by joining the prefix hexa-, meaning six, to decimal. It is a partial equivalent of the older term sexadecimal, both describing a base-sixteen counting system.

Origin: English (from Ancient Greek and Latin roots)

Synonyms

View more →

hex base sixteen sedecimal sexadecimal base-sixteen

Related words

spell curse witch mojo jinx hex magic spell forspeak

Rhymes for hexadecimal

animal primal decimal optimal minimal proximal

See all rhymes for hexadecimal →

Frequently asked questions

What does hexadecimal mean in computing?

It refers to a number system with a base of sixteen, using digits 0 to 9 and letters A to F. It is commonly used because it represents binary data compactly.

Why do programmers use hexadecimal instead of binary?

Because one hexadecimal digit represents exactly four binary bits, so a byte can be shown with just two hexadecimal digits, making long binary strings far easier to read.

What is an example of a hexadecimal number?

A hexadecimal number might look like 1A3F, using digits and the letters A to F in place of values ten to fifteen.

What is the meaning of hexadecimal?

"hexadecimal" (noun) means a number system based on sixteen, using the digits 0 to 9 and the letters A to F.

People also searched

spell curse witch mojo jinx hex magic spell forspeak