fractional

adjective

frac·​tion·​al ˈfrak-sh(ə-)nəl 

1

: of, relating to, or being a fraction

2

: of, relating to, or being fractional currency

3

: relatively small : inconsiderable

4

: of, relating to, or involving a process for separating components of a mixture through differences in physical or chemical properties

fractional distillation

fractionally adverb

Examples of fractional in a Sentence

There has been a fractional rise in the price of the stock.

There is only a fractional improvement in the new version.

Recent Examples on the Web

This is a gentle fractional laser treatment that works by creating micro zones of heat in the skin, benefiting the complexion while boosting elasticity. —Samantha Mims, Essence, 3 Oct. 2025

Foley says the super-midsize category has been attractive to many fractional programs, such as NetJets, Flexjet and smaller operators, so could benefit Gulfstream. —Michael Verdon, Robb Report, 1 Oct. 2025

Different colors are used on the jigs to signify what size drill bit to use so the workers don’t have to squint at fractional numbers on the boat. —Kristin Shaw, Popular Science, 24 Sep. 2025

Also, as opposed to a permanent or staff employee, fractional workers contribute on a part-time basis for multiple businesses or clients. —Ernestine Siu, CNBC, 22 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

fraction + -al entry 1

First Known Use

1650, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing fractional

• fractional currency

Rhymes for fractional

• factional
• interactional
• redactional
• transactional

Kids Definition

fractional

adjective

frac·​tion·​al ˈfrak-shnəl 

-shən-ᵊl

1

: of, relating to, or being a fraction

fractional equivalents of percentages

2

: fairly small

fractionally

-ē

adverb

Medical Definition

fractional

adjective

frac·​tion·​al -shən-ᵊl, -shnəl 

: of, relating to, or involving a process for separating components of a mixture through differences in physical or chemical properties

fractional distillation