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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
When things are going wrong in a management relationship, the common denominator is usually unstructured, low substance, hit-or-miss communication. Bruce Tulgan, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Another common denominator to the success of these two teams is offensive line stability. Jeff Zrebiec, The Athletic, 18 Jan. 2025 The common denominator is that algorithmic management slices work into the smallest possible units or microtasks – a process known as deskilling, which has been the core practice seen in assembly lines for more than a century. Joe McKendrick, Forbes, 28 Feb. 2025 Just remember that the common denominator is the child. Jann Blackstone, Chicago Tribune, 23 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for common denominator

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

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Cite this Entry

“Common denominator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/common%20denominator. Accessed 21 Mar. 2025.

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

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