ceil() function in PHP

The ceil() function rounds a number up to the nearest greater integer. This function always rounds up, regardless of the decimal value.

Syntax

ceil(number)

Parameters

• number − The numeric value to round up

Return Value

Returns the value rounded up to the nearest integer as a float.

Example 1: Basic Usage

Here's how ceil() works with positive decimal numbers ?

<?php
   echo ceil(0.90) . "
";
   echo ceil(0.15) . "
";
   echo ceil(2.01) . "
";
?>

1
1
3

Example 2: Whole Numbers

When applied to whole numbers, ceil() returns the same value ?

<?php
   echo ceil(2) . "
";
   echo ceil(5) . "
";
?>

2
5

Example 3: Negative Numbers

With negative numbers, ceil() rounds toward zero (less negative) ?

<?php
   echo ceil(8.9) . "
";
   echo ceil(-9.2) . "
";
   echo ceil(-3.1) . "
";
?>

9
-9
-3

Key Points

• Always rounds up to the next integer

• Returns a float data type, not integer

• For negative numbers, rounds toward zero (becomes less negative)

• Whole numbers remain unchanged

Conclusion

The ceil() function is useful when you need the smallest integer greater than or equal to a given number, commonly used in pagination, quantity calculations, and mathematical operations requiring upward rounding.