common denominator

noun

1

: a common multiple of the denominators of a number of fractions

2

: a common trait or theme

Synonyms

• commonality
• congruity
• correspondence
• parallel
• resemblance
• similarity
• similitude

Examples of common denominator in a Sentence

Drugs seem to be the common denominator in these crimes.

Recent Examples on the Web

The issues of work and skills are a common denominator across countries and societies. —Jamil Wyne, Forbes, 12 Dec. 2024

Heartache remains their common denominator, yet few performers, if any, address the issue with the directness, authenticity and panache of Olivia Rodrigo. —Bob Gendron, Chicago Tribune, 12 Dec. 2024

Yet the common denominator in both counties and Pennsylvania as a whole is Harris' dominance with female voters. —Joey Garrison, USA TODAY, 17 Sep. 2024

However, the common denominator for these world-changing technologies is that Silicon Valley has the largest concentration of venture capitalists. —Tim Bajarin, Forbes, 5 Nov. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

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