prefix notation
nounUK /ˈpriːfɪks nəʊˈteɪʃən/
US /ˈpriːfɪks noʊˈteɪʃən/
A way of writing math where the operator comes before the numbers.
In prefix notation, adding 3 and 4 is written as + 3 4.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A style of writing where a small word part is attached to the front of a word.
The prefix 'un-' in 'unhappy' shows how a prefix changes a word's meaning.
3. A way of naming files or labels where the important part comes first.
The files were sorted using a prefix notation so the date appeared at the start.
4. A method in computing where a command is placed before its data.
The calculator read the prefix notation and knew to multiply before adding.