common multiple

noun

, Mathematics.

1. a number that is a multiple of all the numbers of a given set.

common multiple

noun

1. an integer or polynomial that is a multiple of each integer or polynomial in a group

   20 is a common multiple of 2, 4, 5, 10

common multiple

1. A number divisible by each of two or more numbers without a remainder. For example, 12 is a common multiple of 2, 3, 4, and 6.

Word History and Origins

Origin of common multiple¹

First recorded in 1885–90

Example Sentences

If you’ve ever had to buy hot dogs for a cookout, you might have found yourself solving a math problem involving least common multiples.

From Quanta Magazine

For the vast constituencies vote merely along the line of the least common multiple of their mob minds.

From Project Gutenberg

Somehow or other a well-ordered monastery represents the Least Common Multiple of nearly all pleasant houses.

From Project Gutenberg

We must break wholes up into fractions, and then seek their common multiple.

From Project Gutenberg

As these two numbers, contain no common factor, their least common multiple is their product , which is the number sought.

From Project Gutenberg

He could not grasp the least common multiple of the two sides.

From Project Gutenberg