What is a sum?

The sum is the result of addition. When you add two or more numbers (the addends), the total is called their sum. 'Sum' always means the answer to an addition, never a subtraction or multiplication.

Examples

• The sum of 6 and 4 is 10 (6 + 4 = 10).
• The sum of 2, 3 and 5 is 10.
• In 8 + 1 = 9, the sum is 9.

Quick facts

• The numbers being added are called addends; the answer is the sum.
• Order does not change the sum: 4 + 6 and 6 + 4 both make 10.