denominator

UK: dɪˈnɒmɪneɪtə | US: dɪˈnɑːmɪneɪtər

Definition

  1. n. (Mathematics) The number below the line in a fraction; the divisor representing the total number of equal parts.

  2. n. (General) A common trait or characteristic used to categorize a group.

Structure
de <down, from Latin *de*>nomin <name, from Latin *nomen*>ator <noun suffix, from Latin *-ator*>
Etymology

The word "denominator" traces back to Latin denominare ("to name thoroughly"), combining de- (emphasizing completeness) and nomen ("name"). In mathematics, it evolved to signify the "named" part of a fraction (the divisor) that defines the size of each unit. The suffix -ator marks it as an agent noun, reflecting its functional role in division.

Examples

  1. In the fraction 3/4, the denominator is 4.

  2. The study grouped participants by age as the denominator.

  3. A low denominator indicates larger fractional parts.

  4. Simplify the fraction by reducing the numerator and denominator.

  5. The denominator must never be zero in a valid fraction.