Divisor

Part of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

/dɪˈvaɪ.zɔːr/ (British), /dɪˈvaɪ.zɚ/ (American)

Definitions

• A number by which another number is divided.
• A factor of a given number in mathematical calculations.

Usage Examples

• "In the equation 20 ÷ 4 = 5, the number 4 is the divisor."
• "The greatest common divisor of 12 and 18 is 6."
• "A prime number has only 1 and itself as divisors."

Etymology

From Latin dividere ("to divide") + suffix -or, first recorded in English in the 16th century.

Synonyms

• Factor
• Denominator
• Quotient determiner

Antonyms

• Dividend
• Multiple

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

• British English: /dɪˈvaɪ.zɔːr/
• American English: /dɪˈvaɪ.zɚ/

Historical Usage

The concept of divisors dates back to ancient mathematics, with early applications found in Greek and Babylonian arithmetic.

Cultural Nuances

In everyday speech, "divisor" is primarily used in mathematical contexts, though it also appears metaphorically when referring to factors that contribute to divisions in society or organizations.

More Information

Divisors play a crucial role in number theory and are essential in concepts like prime factorization, modular arithmetic, and cryptography.