denominator

[dih-nom-uh-ney-ter]

noun

1. Arithmetic.,  that term of a fraction, usually written under the line, that indicates the number of equal parts into which the unit is divided; divisor.

2. something shared or held in common; standard.

3. Archaic.,  a person or thing that denominates.

denominator

/ dɪˈnɒmɪˌneɪtə /

noun

1. the divisor of a fraction, as 8 in 7/ 8 Compare numerator

2. archaic,  a person or thing that denominates or designates

denominator

1. The number below or to the right of the line in a fraction, indicating the number of equal parts into which one whole is divided. For example, in the fraction 2/7, 7 is the denominator.

denominator

1. In mathematics, the number that appears on the bottom of a fraction. In the fraction 2/3, the denominator is 3. (Compare numerator.)

Word History and Origins

Origin of denominator¹

1535–45; < Medieval Latin dēnōminātor, equivalent to Latin dēnōminā ( re ) ( denominate ) + -tor -tor

Example Sentences

The common denominator is that there is a problem at Ibrox.

From BBC

Akimoto laughed off the suggestion, but expressed frustration about technology's ability to mine data and find the "maximum common denominator".

From BBC

They say he was the "common denominator" in all the poisoning cases.

From BBC

But she found it to be the only common denominator.

From BBC

Each of these dogs is a common denominator for several people, a source of their connection and shared joy.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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