fraction

noun

frac·​tion ˈfrak-shən How to pronounce fraction (audio)
1
a
: a numerical representation (such as ³/₄, ⁵/₈, or 3.234) indicating the quotient of two numbers
b(1)
: a piece broken off : fragment
(2)
: a discrete unit : portion
2
: one of several portions (as of a distillate) separable by fractionation
3
: bit, little
a fraction closer

Examples of fraction in a Sentence

a fraction of an inch if even a tiny fraction of that cookie broke off and fell into the delicate watch works, it could mess things up
Recent Examples on the Web By stealing patented products and concepts and listing them for a fraction of the price, these platforms are pocketing earnings that should go to the creators and entrepreneurs who did the work. Michael Benarde, Fortune, 10 May 2024 After considering hiring a doula or night nurse who would help feed and care for the baby overnight, Forrest decided a stay at Boram would be akin to hiring a doula, lactation consultant, personal chef, and cleaning person in one space for a fraction of the price, albeit still a significant sum. Eliana Dockterman, TIME, 8 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for fraction 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fraction.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

Middle English fraccioun "act or result of breaking, mathematical fraction," borrowed from Medieval Latin frāctiōn-, frāctiō "breaking, division into parts, mathematical fraction," going back to Late Latin, "breaking, weariness, illness," from Latin frag-, variant stem of frangere "to break, shatter" + -tiōn-, -tiō, suffix of verbal action — more at break entry 1

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Time Traveler
The first known use of fraction was in the 14th century

Dictionary Entries Near fraction

Cite this Entry

“Fraction.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fraction. Accessed 15 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

fraction

noun
frac·​tion ˈfrak-shən How to pronounce fraction (audio)
1
: a number (as ½, ¾, or 3.323) that represents a number of equal parts of a whole or the division of one number by another
2
: a part of a whole

Medical Definition

fraction

noun
frac·​tion ˈfrak-shən How to pronounce fraction (audio)
: one of several portions (as of a distillate) separable by fractionation
gamma globulin is a fraction of blood plasma

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