common multiple

noun

: a multiple of each of two or more numbers or expressions
90 is a common multiple of 6 and 10

Examples of common multiple in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web Twins are by far the most common multiples, and most twin pregnancies turn out fine. Anna Nowogrodzki, New York Times, 6 May 2019 Historically, a common multiple was around 10 to 12 times NPS. Glenn Peoples, Billboard, 13 Sep. 2019 These shapes formed from the paths of a system driven at two frequencies with no common multiple — that is, frequencies whose ratio was an irrational number, like pi or the golden mean. Quanta Magazine, 10 Mar. 2015 Most states share a common multiple-choice section of the bar exam developed by a national organization, but each has the power to set its own cut, or passing score. Sara Randazzo, WSJ, 19 Oct. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word '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

1714, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of common multiple was in 1714

Dictionary Entries Near common multiple

Cite this Entry

“Common multiple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/common%20multiple. Accessed 19 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

common multiple

noun
: a number that is a multiple of each of two or more numbers
20 is a common multiple of 5 and 4
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