Whole numbers including positive numbers, negative numbers, and zero, but not fractions or decimals.
From Latin 'integer' meaning whole, complete, or untouched, from 'in-' (not) and 'tangere' (to touch). The mathematical term was adopted in the 16th century when European mathematicians began formalizing number systems based on ancient Greek and Arabic mathematics.
The word 'integer' literally means 'untouched' in Latin, which beautifully captures the concept of whole numbers that haven't been divided or broken into parts. This etymology helps explain why mathematicians distinguish integers from fractions - integers maintain their wholeness or integrity.
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