least common denominator

noun

: the least common multiple of two or more denominators

Examples of least common denominator in a Sentence

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.
Appealing to the least common denominator can create attrition for your first quintiles. — John Pierce, Forbes, 7 June 2022 Usually developers aim for the least common denominator when there’s a discrepancy, to ensure the largest audience. — Hayden Dingman, PCWorld, 30 Apr. 2019 Now that fires from Pacific Palisades to Altadena to Castaic have finally subsided, thousands upon thousands of residents are returning to a life dispossessed of its least common denominators. — Phi Do, Los Angeles Times, 7 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1851, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of least common denominator was in 1851

Rhymes for least common denominator

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Browse Nearby Words

least bittern
least common denominator
least common multiple
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Cite this Entry

“Least common denominator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/least%20common%20denominator. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

least common denominator

noun
: the least common multiple of the denominators of two or more fractions

called also lowest common denominator

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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