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

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

“L.A. is really yearning for that community and I think this is something that really gives people of any age a place to connect, and it’s such an easy common denominator.”

From Los Angeles Times

But the common denominator is supporting a robust immune function, Topol said.

From Los Angeles Times

And adults assume that’s what kids want, so we lean into the lowest common denominator — which actually harms them, because those are the most important years for development.

From Salon

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