1. A linear array of digits that represents a real number, every decimal place indicating a multiple of a negative power of 10. For example, the decimal 0.1 = 1/10, 0.12 = 12/100, 0.003 = 3/1000. Also called decimal fraction. 2. A number written using the base 10.
ADJECTIVE:
1. Expressed or expressible as a decimal. 2a. Based on 10. b. Numbered or ordered by groups of 10.
ETYMOLOGY:
Medieval Latin decimlis, of tenths or tithes, from Latin decima, a tenth part or tithe, from decem, ten. See dek in Appendix I.
d
s
-m
lis, of tenths or tithes, from Latin decima, a tenth part or tithe, from decem, ten. See dek
in Appendix I.
