noun
numerator
NOO-muh-ray-tor
Numerator (noun) means the top number in a fraction, showing how many parts are being counted. Example: “In the fraction three-quarters, three is the numerator.”
noun
1
the top number in a fraction, showing how many parts are being counted.
"In the fraction three-quarters, three is the numerator."
"To add two fractions with the same denominator, you simply add the numerators."
"She multiplied both the numerator and the denominator by two."
How to use numerator
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe numerator is simply the top number of a fraction.
When to use it
It is a neutral, technical term used mainly in mathematics and education.
Memory tip
Remember it sits above the line, so think of the 'nu' in numerator as being 'up'.
Trace the full origin ↓
Easily confused with
Common pairings
the numerator and denominator
a common numerator
multiply the numerator
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
In the fraction three-quarters, three is the _____.
Etymology
The word is a learned borrowing taken directly from Late Latin, from the Latin term numerator.
Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for numerator
See all rhymes for numerator →Frequently asked questions
What is a numerator in maths?
It is the number written on top in a fraction, showing how many parts of the whole are being counted.
What is the difference between a numerator and a denominator?
The numerator sits above the line and shows the count of parts, while the denominator sits below the line and shows the total number of equal parts.
Where does the word numerator come from?
It comes from Late Latin numerator, a learned borrowing rather than a word that evolved naturally through everyday speech.
What is the meaning of numerator?
"numerator" (noun) means the top number in a fraction, showing how many parts are being counted.
