What does infix mean?
An infix is a linguistic element placed within a larger expression rather than at its beginning or end. Its most familiar use is in mathematical and computer notation, where an operator stands between two operands: for example, the plus sign in 3 + 4. Such expressions are described as infix notation and contrast with prefix and postfix forms. The term also has a general linguistic application, referring to material inserted into the interior of a word or construction, although such insertion is less common than adding a prefix at the beginning or a suffix at the end. Despite the word’s suggestive name, an infix does not have to occupy the exact middle of an expression; it need only be internal. The term comes from Latin and literally refers to something fixed or fastened in.
An element inserted within a larger word or expression; in mathematics and computing, especially an operator written between operands.
"This programming language supports infix notation for mathematical operations."
To insert an element within a larger expression.
"The notation infixes a custom operator between the two values."
The plural is used when referring to multiple inserted elements or types of operator notation.
"The parser supports several infixes, including addition and multiplication."
An infix plays hide-and-seek inside an expression, unlike a prefix or suffix, which announce themselves at the edges.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does infix come from?
The word infix comes from the Latin infixus, the past participle of infigere, meaning “to fix in” or “to fasten into.” The verb combined the prefix in- with figere, “to fix” or “to fasten.” English borrowed the form in the 17th century, initially in the sense of something inserted or fixed within another thing.
Related word forms
How infix is actually used
In mathematics and computing, the term is especially common in expressions such as infix notation and infix operator. In general linguistics, infixing is relatively uncommon compared with prefixing and suffixing, and the inserted element need not occupy the exact middle.
Easily confused with infix
A prefix is added at the beginning of a word, whereas an infix is inserted within an expression.
A suffix is added at the end of a word, whereas an infix occurs between elements of a larger expression.