Fraction

Definition

A fraction is a numerical representation indicating the quotient of two numbers, typically with one above the other and separated by a horizontal or slanted line.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfrækʃən/
• Respelling: FRAK-shun (with "FRAK" as in "track" and "shun" as in "cushion")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfrækʃən/
• Respelling: FRAK-shun (with "FRAK" as in "track" and "shun" as in "cushion")

In both dialects, "fraction" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "FRAK." The pronunciation is the same across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "FRAK-shun."

Etymology

The word "fraction" originates from the Latin word "fractio," meaning "a breaking," derived from "frangere," meaning "to break." The term entered the English language in the late Middle Ages and has been used primarily in mathematics to describe a part of a whole.

Derivatives

• Fractional (adjective)
• Fractionally (adverb)
• Fractionate (verb)
• Fractionation (noun)
• Fractious (adjective)

Synonyms

• Portion
• Piece
• Segment

Antonyms

• Whole
• Entirety
• Total

Usage

"Fraction" is widely used in mathematics to denote a part of a whole number, typically expressed with a numerator and a denominator (e.g., 1/2, 3/4). Outside of mathematics, the term can be used to describe any small part or segment of something larger, whether it be a quantity, group, or time period.

Related Terms

• Decimal
• Ratio
• Numerator
• Denominator
• Percentage

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A Numerical Quantity Representing a Part of a Whole: A fraction is a way of representing a part of a whole number, typically written with a numerator (the part) above a denominator (the whole).
  • Example: The fraction 3/4 represents three out of four equal parts of a whole.

• Division of a Quantity: In mathematical operations, a fraction can also represent the division of one quantity by another.
  • Example: Dividing a cake into eight equal slices gives each person 1/8 of the cake, or one-eighth.

• A Small Part or Segment of Something Larger: Used outside of mathematics to describe a small part or portion of a larger whole.
  • Example: Only a fraction of the population attended the event.