denominator.

1. The quantity by which another is divided, especially the lower number in a fraction.

2. A shared feature or basis connecting otherwise different people or things, chiefly in common denominator.

Use it for

Words that belong together

• common denominator
• denominator of a fraction
• change the denominator

On the page

The percentage rose because the denominator became smaller, not because more people attended.

Use eligible voters, rather than all residents, as the denominator for turnout.

Fractions must share a common denominator before their numerators can be added directly.

Usage notes

Primary category: academic. When comparing rates, state what is in the denominator. A changing denominator can alter a percentage even if the numerator is unchanged. Singular: denominator; plural: denominators.