lowest common denominator

noun

1
2
: something of small intellectual content designed to appeal to a lowbrow audience
also : such an audience

Examples of lowest 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.
In grade school, we were taught to find the lowest common denominator in math class. Expert Panel®, Forbes.com, 20 June 2025 But best practices are often just the lowest common denominator, a one-size-fits-all illusion of safety that gives us someone to blame when things go wrong. Denis Mandich, Forbes.com, 29 Apr. 2025 That begins by removing the pressure to match the lowest common denominator of worker, the slowest pace, and designing systems that support high performance, not just long hours. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 7 Apr. 2025 Society’s lowest common denominator should never have a say into anyone living their authentic, unapologetic life. David John Chávez, Mercury News, 4 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for lowest common denominator

Word History

First Known Use

1854, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of lowest common denominator was in 1854

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Cite this Entry

“Lowest common denominator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/lowest%20common%20denominator. Accessed 10 Jul. 2025.

Kids Definition

lowest common denominator

noun
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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