Scalars are numerical values that are used in mathematics and computer science. The term "scalar" comes from the Latin word for "having a ladder," which refers to the idea that a scalar can be used to represent a quantity that has only magnitude (size) and no direction. There are many synonyms for the term "scalar," including "quantity," "magnitude," "value," and "number." These words all refer to the numerical aspect of a scalar, and emphasize its importance in making calculations and solving mathematical problems. Other synonyms for "scalar" include "non-vector," "non-directional," and "one-dimensional," all of which describe the fact that scalars have no directional component.