Definition:Variable/Real

Definition

A real variable is a symbol which can stand for any one of a set of real numbers.

The symbols most often used to denote a real variable are $x$ and $y$.

Also known as

When it occurs in a mathematical equation, a variable is often referred to as an unknown.

In the specific context of elementary algebra, the ugly misnomer pronumeral is frequently found in Australia. This was introduced by extension of the concept of a pronoun: a symbol that stands in for a numeral, by which the term number is actually meant.

Thankfully the term appears not to have caught on in general.

Sources

• 1947: James M. Hyslop: Infinite Series (3rd ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): Chapter $\text I$: Functions and Limits: $\S 2$: Functions
• 1981: Murray R. Spiegel: Theory and Problems of Complex Variables (SI ed.) ... (previous) ... (next): $1$: Complex Numbers: Graphical Representation of Real Numbers