scratchvariable

noun

UK /ˈskrætʃ ˈveəriəbl/

US /ˈskrætʃ ˈveriəbl/

A scratch variable is a temporary place where a computer keeps a value while it is working.

The program used a scratch variable to hold the total while it added up the numbers.

SYNONYMS

temporary variable temp variable working variable intermediate variable

RELATED WORDS

variable placeholder register buffer local variable

OTHER MEANINGS

2. In programming, a scratch variable can be a variable used only briefly and then thrown away.

He declared a scratch variable inside the loop to store each result.

3. In math puzzles, a scratch variable is a made-up letter you use to help solve the problem.

She called the unknown amount a scratch variable and worked out the answer step by step.

4. In everyday talk, a scratch variable is anything you jot down quickly to remember for a short time.

The coach wrote the lineup on a scratch variable on his hand.