common denominator

noun

1

: a common multiple of the denominators of a number of fractions

2

: a common trait or theme

Synonyms of common denominator

• similarity
• resemblance

Examples of common denominator in a Sentence

Drugs seem to be the common denominator in these crimes.

Recent Examples on the Web

However, in my experience as a professor of inclusive leadership, working for C-suite leaders and interviewing them, humility is a common denominator for the most impactful and inspiring leaders. — Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 23 July 2026

The common denominator is the draw of directors who have cultivated strong fan bases. — Samantha Masunaga, Los Angeles Times, 21 July 2026

Iceberg lettuce from Taco Bell is thought to be the common denominator among people who have gotten sick with cyclosporiasis in Michigan and the surrounding states. — Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 20 July 2026

Violent conflict is a common denominator of contemporary famine, and famine or the risk of famine has already been noted in several countries in the region. — Peter Hailey, The Conversation, 16 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1594, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for common denominator

• accelerator
• accumulator
• adjudicator
• administrator
• appropriator
• articulator
• attenuator
• bronchodilator
• collaborator
• communicator
• conciliator
• cooperator

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