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

And, of course, the common denominator: the 34-and-still-slugging Perez. —Jaylon Thompson, Kansas City Star, 18 May 2024

The only common denominators would be fuel or switchboard problems. —Lorraine Mirabella, Baltimore Sun, 18 Apr. 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