common denominator

common denominator
Denominator De*nom"i*na`tor, n. [Cf. F. d['e]nominateur.] 1. One who, or that which, gives a name; origin or source of a name. [1913 Webster]

This opinion that Aram . . . was the father and denomination of the Syrians in general. --Sir W. Raleigh. [1913 Webster]

2. (Arith.) That number placed below the line in common fractions which shows into how many parts the integer or unit is divided. [1913 Webster]

Note: Thus, in 3/5, 5 is the denominator, showing that the integer is divided into five parts; and the numerator, 3, shows how many parts are taken. [1913 Webster]

3. (Alg.) That part of any expression under a fractional form which is situated below the horizontal line signifying division. [1913 Webster]

Note: In this sense, the denominator is not necessarily a number, but may be any expression, either positive or negative, real or imaginary. --Davies & Peck (Math. Dict.) [1913 Webster]

{common denominator} a number which can divide either of two or more other numbers without leaving a remainder in any of the divisions; as, 2 and 4 are common denominators of 12 and 28..

{greatest common denominator} the largest {common denominator} of two or more numbers; as, 9 is the greatest common denominator of 18 and 27.. [PJC]


The Collaborative International Dictionary of English. 2000.

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