fractional
UK: ˈfræk.ʃən.əl | US: ˈfræk.ʃən.əl
adj. relating to or constituting a fraction
adj. very small; insignificant
adj. (chemistry) involving separation into distinct parts
The word "fractional" traces back to the Latin frangere (to break), which evolved into fractio (a breaking or division). The morpheme fract preserves the core idea of "breaking," while -ion turns it into a noun (e.g., "fraction" → later "fraction"). The suffix -al then adapts it into an adjective, describing something related to division or small parts. The term reflects mathematical fragmentation (e.g., fractional numbers) and broader uses (e.g., fractional ownership).
The machine cuts materials into fractional pieces for precise assembly.
His contribution was fractional compared to the team’s overall effort.
Fractional distillation separates crude oil into usable components.
She owns a fractional share of the vacation property.
The data showed only a fractional improvement in efficiency.