common denominator

noun

1
: a common multiple of the denominators of a number of fractions
2
: a common trait or theme

Examples of common denominator in a Sentence

Drugs seem to be the common denominator in these crimes.
Recent Examples on the Web Accountability was a common denominator — our goal-setters leaned on family members, kept journals and shared their progress with us. Dan Rosenzweig-Ziff, Washington Post, 18 June 2024 The common denominator for each of Greenberg’s businesses is an immersive retail experience and it’s brought in many customers. Sean Krofssik, Hartford Courant, 14 May 2024 Despite enjoying notably more accurate results in the 2018 and 2022 midterms, pollsters this year are once again contending with a common denominator of the 2016 and 2020 cycles: now-former President Donald Trump, who is this year's presumptive GOP presidential nominee. Geoffrey Skelley, ABC News, 30 May 2024 Impact: Tom sees the common denominator in her career as equity and strives to be a voice for her peers and young people. Sabrina Bodon, Sacramento Bee, 30 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for common denominator 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'common denominator.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of common denominator was in 1594

Dictionary Entries Near common denominator

Cite this Entry

“Common denominator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/common%20denominator. Accessed 4 Jul. 2024.

Kids Definition

common denominator

noun
: a number or expression that is a multiple of each of the denominators in a set of fractions
12 is a common denominator of ¼ and ⅓

More from Merriam-Webster on common denominator

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