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

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 28 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

least common multiple

noun
: the smallest number that is a multiple of each of two or more numbers

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