constant variable

noun

UK /ˈkɒnstənt ˈveəriəbl/

US /ˈkɑːnstənt ˈveriəbl/

A constant variable is a value in a computer program that is given a name and cannot be changed while the program runs.

The programmer set the maximum score as a constant variable so no part of the game could accidentally change it.

SYNONYMS

fixed variable read-only variable immutable variable named constant

RELATED WORDS

variable constant declaration assignment data type

OTHER MEANINGS

2. In mathematics, a constant variable is a quantity that stays the same throughout a problem or equation.

In the equation y = 3x + 5, the number 5 acts as a constant variable.

3. In science experiments, a constant variable is a factor that is kept the same for every trial so the results are fair.

The scientist kept the room temperature as a constant variable during each test.

4. In everyday speech, a constant variable can mean something that seems changeable but in practice never changes.

The bus schedule is a constant variable: it says times may vary, but it always arrives late.