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least common multiple
noun
1
: the smallest common multiple of two or more numbers
2
: the common multiple of lowest degree of two or more polynomials
Examples of least common multiple in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
That number is the least common multiple of 260 and 365, or the first point at which the two calendars meet.
—
Nathaniel Scharping, Discover Magazine, 21 Dec. 2020
This involves finding the least common multiple (LCM) of those numbers.
—
Eugenia Cheng, WSJ, 9 Sep. 2022
To see why, think about all the multiples of 5 under 40, the least common multiple of 5 and 8.
—
Quanta Magazine, 18 Nov. 2021
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Word History
First Known Use
1823, in the meaning defined at sense 1
Time Traveler
The first known use of least common multiple was
in 1823
Dictionary Entries Near least common multiple
Cite this Entry
“Least common multiple.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/least%20common%20multiple. Accessed 24 Feb. 2025.
Kids Definition
least common multiple
noun
: the smallest number that is a multiple of each of two or more numbers
More from Merriam-Webster on least common multiple
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about least common multiple
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