decimal Definition
- 1relating to or denoting a system of numbers and arithmetic based on the number ten, tenth parts, and powers of ten
- 2a fraction whose denominator is a power of ten and whose numerator is expressed by figures placed to the right of a decimal point
Using decimal: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "decimal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The decimal system is widely used in everyday life.
Example
0.5 is a decimal number.
Example
She converted the fraction into a decimal.
Example
The answer is rounded to two decimal places.
decimal Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for decimal
- denary
- fractional
- point
- base-10
Phrases with decimal
a dot used to separate the whole number part from the fractional part of a decimal number
Example
In the number 3.14, the decimal point separates the 3 from the 14.
Example
In the number 3.14, the 1 is in the first decimal place.
a fraction whose denominator is a power of ten and whose numerator is expressed by figures placed to the right of a decimal point
Example
0.25 is a decimal fraction.
Origins of decimal
from Latin 'decimus', meaning 'tenth'
Summary: decimal in Brief
The term 'decimal' [ˈdɛsɪm(ə)l] refers to a number system based on ten and its powers, as well as fractions expressed by figures to the right of a decimal point. It is widely used in everyday life, and examples include '0.5 is a decimal number.' and 'The answer is rounded to two decimal places.' 'Decimal' extends into phrases like 'decimal point,' which separates whole and fractional parts, and 'decimal fraction,' which has a denominator of a power of ten.
