Definition

Noun: A hexadecimal system is a positional numeral system with a base, or radix, of sixteen. It uses sixteen distinct symbols to represent values, typically the digits 0-9 to represent values zero to nine, and the letters A-F (or a-f) to represent values ten to fifteen.

Usage

The hexadecimal system is primarily used in computing and digital electronics because it provides a more human-friendly representation of binary-coded values. One hexadecimal digit directly corresponds to four binary digits (bits).

Examples

• In the hexadecimal system, the decimal number 255 is written as 'FF'.
• Programmers often use the hexadecimal system to represent memory addresses and color values in web design.
• Understanding the hexadecimal system is essential for low-level software debugging.

Advanced Usage

• "to represent in hexadecimal": To express a number using the base-16 system.
  • The error code was represented in hexadecimal, so we had to convert it to decimal to understand it.
• "hexadecimal notation": The method of writing numbers using the hexadecimal system.
  • The configuration file required the value to be entered in hexadecimal notation.

Variants and Related Words

• Hexadecimal (adj): Of, relating to, or using the hexadecimal system.
  • A hexadecimal value.
• Hex (n, informal): A common abbreviation for a hexadecimal number.
  • What's the hex code for this blue color?
• Base-16: Another term for the hexadecimal system, emphasizing its radix.

Synonyms

• Base-16 system: A direct synonym describing the numeral system by its radix.
• Hex system: An informal, shortened synonym.

Related Phrases

• Hexadecimal digit: One of the sixteen symbols (0-9, A-F) used in the system.
• Hexadecimal number: A number expressed in the hexadecimal system.

Noun

1. a positional system of numeration that uses hexadecimal digits and a radix of sixteen