Fraction Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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fraction
[ˈfrækʃ(ə)n ]
Definitions
mathematics
A fraction is a numerical quantity that is not a whole number; a part or a number of parts of a whole.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fraction |
This term is commonly used in mathematics to describe a part of a whole, especially when dealing with numbers. It can also be used in a general sense to describe anything that is a small part of something larger.
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| portion |
This term suggests a part or share of something larger, often used in the context of food or non-mathematical situations. It indicates a specific amount of a larger whole.
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| segment |
Typically used to describe a distinct part of something that is divided, often in technical contexts or when discussing parts of a market, time, or physical objects.
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| division |
Often used in both mathematical contexts to refer to the process of dividing, and in more general contexts to mean splitting something into parts. It can also imply a disagreement or separation between groups of people.
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Examples of usage
- She ate a fraction of the cake.
- The glass was filled to three-quarters, which is equivalent to 3/4 as a fraction.
informal
A small or tiny part of something.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- He only heard a fraction of the conversation.
- The team won by a fraction of a second.
chemistry
A chemical compound composed of an atom or group of atoms bonded to an atom or group of atoms of another element.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fraction |
Use when referring to a part of a whole, especially in mathematics or science.
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| compound |
Use when referring to a substance formed by the chemical combination of two or more elements, or for a thing that consists of multiple parts.
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| mixture |
Use when different substances are mixed together but retain their individual properties. Commonly used in chemistry, cooking, and general science.
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| blend |
Use when combining different elements smoothly into one. Often used in cooking or talking about harmony in visual art or music.
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Examples of usage
- Water is a compound made up of hydrogen and oxygen atoms in a 2:1 ratio, represented by the chemical formula H2O.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Mathematics
- Fractions consist of two parts: the numerator (top number) indicates how many parts you have, while the denominator (bottom number) shows how many equal parts make up a whole.
- Improper fractions can have a numerator larger than the denominator, meaning you have more than one whole.
- Fractions are essential in everyday life, like when cooking or dividing things among friends.
History
- Ancient Egyptians were among the first to use fractions, primarily for division.
- The concept of fractions evolved in Europe through the works of mathematicians like Fibonacci in the 13th century.
- In some cultures, ratios and portions were used long before modern fractions were formally recognized.
Pop Culture
- Fractions feature prominently in movies and television, such as in scenes where characters must split bills or share items.
- Educational games and shows often use fractions to engage children, such as 'Fraction Pizza' games.
- The term 'fraction' has been used metaphorically in pop culture to discuss divisions within society or groups.
Psychology
- Understanding fractions can help develop critical thinking skills as people learn to compare and manipulate parts.
- Research suggests that people often visualize fractions as pie charts or bar graphs to better understand proportions.
- Cognitive studies show that mastering fractions early on can enhance mathematical abilities in children.
Origin of 'fraction'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'fractio,' meaning 'to break' or 'a breaking.'
- In the 15th century, the term started being used in mathematics to describe parts of a whole.
- Before the word was popularized, fractions were referred to by various terms in different cultures.
The word 'fraction' originated from the Latin word 'fractus' meaning 'broken'. It first appeared in English in the late 14th century, with its mathematical meaning developing in the 16th century. Fractions have been used in various cultures throughout history to represent parts of a whole and to perform calculations involving division.