greatest integer function
nounUK /ˈɡreɪtɪst ˈɪntɪdʒə ˈfʌŋkʃən/
US /ˈɡreɪtɪst ˈɪntɪdʒər ˈfʌŋkʃən/
The greatest integer function gives the biggest whole number that is not bigger than a number.
The greatest integer function of 3.7 is 3.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A mathematical rule that maps each real number to the largest integer less than or equal to it.
The greatest integer function maps -2.3 to -3.
3. A function often written with special brackets that show the whole-number part of a value.
Using the greatest integer function, 5.9 becomes 5.
4. A step-like function whose graph looks like a staircase with flat steps.
The graph of the greatest integer function jumps at every whole number.