Math.abs()

The Math.abs() static method returns the absolute value of a number.

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Syntax

js

Math.abs(x)

Parameters

x

A number.

Return value

The absolute value of x. If x is negative (including -0), returns -x. Otherwise, returns x. The result is therefore always a positive number or 0.

Description

Because abs() is a static method of Math, you always use it as Math.abs(), rather than as a method of a Math object you created (Math is not a constructor).

Examples

Using Math.abs()

js

Math.abs(-Infinity); // Infinity
Math.abs(-1); // 1
Math.abs(-0); // 0
Math.abs(0); // 0
Math.abs(1); // 1
Math.abs(Infinity); // Infinity

Coercion of parameter

Math.abs() coerces its parameter to a number. Non-coercible values will become NaN, making Math.abs() also return NaN.

js

Math.abs("-1"); // 1
Math.abs(-2); // 2
Math.abs(null); // 0
Math.abs(""); // 0
Math.abs([]); // 0
Math.abs([2]); // 2
Math.abs([1, 2]); // NaN
Math.abs({}); // NaN
Math.abs("string"); // NaN
Math.abs(); // NaN

Specifications

Specification
ECMAScript Language Specification
# sec-math.abs

Browser compatibility

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See also