Numerator: meaning, definitions and examples

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numerator

 

[ ˈnjuːməreɪtər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

mathematics

The number above the line in a common fraction showing how many parts of the whole are taken.

Synonyms

numeral, top number.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
numerator

Used in the context of fractions in mathematics to refer to the top part of a fraction, representing the number of equal parts taken from the whole.

  • In the fraction 3/4, 3 is the numerator.
  • Simplify the fraction by dividing both the numerator and the denominator by their greatest common divisor.
top number

A more informal term, typically used in educational settings or when explaining fractions to beginners. It means the same as 'numerator' and is used to simplify understanding.

  • In the fraction 7/8, the top number is 7.
  • To add fractions, you need to make sure the top numbers are added together if the denominators are the same.
numeral

Used to describe symbols or characters that represent numbers. Often seen in contexts such as writing, counting, and digital displays.

  • Roman numerals are commonly used in the titles of monarchs and popes.
  • The numeral '5' represents the quantity five.

Examples of usage

  • The numerator of the fraction 3/4 is 3.
  • The numerator represents the number of equal parts being considered.
Context #2 | Noun

statistics

In a ratio, the numerator is the number of occurrences of a particular event or outcome.

Synonyms

top number.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
numerator

This term is commonly used in mathematical contexts, especially in fractions to indicate the number above the line in a fraction. It appears in formal or educational settings.

  • In the fraction 3/4, 3 is the numerator.
  • You need to add the numerators when you are adding fractions.
top number

This is a more casual or informal way to refer to the numerator in a fraction. It is often used when explaining concepts to someone who might not be familiar with formal mathematical terms, like young students or non-experts.

  • Look at the top number in the fraction to see how many parts you have.
  • If the top number is larger, then the fraction represents a bigger portion.

Examples of usage

  • The numerator of the ratio of successful outcomes to total outcomes.

Translations

Translations of the word "numerator" in other languages:

🇵🇹 numerador

🇮🇳 अनुपातक

🇩🇪 Zähler

🇮🇩 pembilang

🇺🇦 чисельник

🇵🇱 licznik

🇯🇵 分子 (ぶんし)

🇫🇷 numérateur

🇪🇸 numerador

🇹🇷 pay

🇰🇷 분자 (bunja)

🇸🇦 البسط

🇨🇿 čitatel

🇸🇰 čitateľ

🇨🇳 分子 (fēnzǐ)

🇸🇮 števec

🇮🇸 teljari

🇰🇿 бөлшек алымы

🇬🇪 გამრავლების

🇦🇿 sayıcı

🇲🇽 numerador

Etymology

The word 'numerator' originated from the Latin word 'numerātor', which means 'a counter or numberer'. The concept of numerators in fractions dates back to ancient Egyptian mathematics and has been fundamental in various mathematical and statistical calculations throughout history.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,863, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.