least integer function
nounUK /liːst ˈɪntɪdʒə ˈfʌŋkʃən/
US /liːst ˈɪntɪdʒər ˈfʌŋkʃən/
A math rule that gives the smallest whole number that is not bigger than a number.
The least integer function of 3.7 is 3.
SYNONYMS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A function that maps each real number to the smallest integer greater than or equal to it.
The least integer function of -2.3 is -2.
3. In some textbooks, another name for the ceiling function, written as ⌈x⌉.
Using the least integer function, ⌈4.1⌉ equals 5.
4. A step function whose graph looks like a staircase rising to the right.
The graph of the least integer function jumps up at every whole number.