greatest common divisor

noun

: the largest integer or the polynomial of highest degree that is an exact divisor of each of two or more integers or polynomials

called also greatest common factor

Word History

First Known Use

1660, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of greatest common divisor was in 1660

Dictionary Entries Near greatest common divisor

Cite this Entry

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

Kids Definition

greatest common divisor

noun
: the largest whole number that is an exact divisor of each of two or more whole numbers

called also greatest common factor

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