decimal system
Americannoun
noun
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the number system in general use, having a base of ten, in which numbers are expressed by combinations of the ten digits 0 to 9
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a system of measurement, such as the metric system, in which the multiple and submultiple units are related to a basic unit by powers of ten
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A number system based on units of 10 and using decimal notation.
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A system of measurement in which all derived units are multiples of 10 of the fundamental units.
Etymology
Origin of decimal system
First recorded in 1835–45
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Hummel says, “I know librarians who organize their home libraries by the Dewey decimal system, but I am not one of them. That said, I do have my books organized quite intentionally by topic.”
From Seattle Times • Nov. 3, 2022
Who needs a decimal system for weights and measures?
From Washington Post • Apr. 25, 2022
Think of the Dewey decimal system in a library.
From Salon • Sep. 1, 2018
Modern numerals, the zero, and the decimal system were invented in India.
From Textbooks • Jan. 1, 2012
She headed into the stacks, jingling her ear with her finger, tuning in her internal Dewey decimal system, another sign she was a born librarian.
From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
