Numerical methods are applicable to numerical problems, that is, the problem to be solved by any numerical method has no scope of containing arbitrary parameters. Learn the subtle but important differences between "numeric" and " numerical " in various contexts, such as computing, mathematics, and language. See definitions, examples, comparison chart, and FAQs. Numerical analysis is the study of algorithms that use numerical approximation for mathematical problems. It has applications in engineering, science, finance, and other fields, and a long history of development and use. Definition of numerical adjective in Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. Meaning, pronunciation, picture, example sentences, grammar, usage notes, synonyms and more.