Definition of decimal

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< decillionth

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dec·i·mal    (ds-ml) KEY 

NOUN:

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.
2. 1. Based on 10.
   2. Numbered or ordered by groups of 10.

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ETYMOLOGY:
Medieval Latin decimlis, of tenths or tithes, from Latin decima, a tenth part or tithe, from decem, ten; see dek in Indo-European roots

OTHER FORMS:
deci·mal·ly(Adverb)