least common multiple
noun
1
: the smallest common multiple of two or more numbers
2
: the common multiple of lowest degree of two or more polynomials
Examples of least common multiple in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That number is the least common multiple of 260 and 365, or the first point at which the two calendars meet.
—
Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 21 Dec. 2020
This involves finding the least common multiple (LCM) of those numbers.
—Eugenia Cheng, WSJ, 9 Sep. 2022
To see why, think about all the multiples of 5 under 40, the least common multiple of 5 and 8.
—Quanta Magazine, 18 Nov. 2021
Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 21 Dec. 2020
This involves finding the least common multiple (LCM) of those numbers.
—Eugenia Cheng, WSJ, 9 Sep. 2022
To see why, think about all the multiples of 5 under 40, the least common multiple of 5 and 8.
—Quanta Magazine, 18 Nov. 2021
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'least common multiple.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.
Word History
First Known Use
1823, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of least common multiple was
in 1823
Dictionary Entries Near least common multiple
Cite this Entry
“Least common multiple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/least%20common%20multiple. Accessed 4 Oct. 2023.
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Kids Definition
least common multiple
noun
: the smallest number that is a multiple of each of two or more numbers
More from Merriam-Webster on least common multiple
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about least common multiple
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