Lowest common denominator (original) (raw)

In mathematics, the lowest common denominator or least common denominator (abbreviated LCD) is the least common multiple of the denominators of a set of fractions. For instance, the LCD of {1/2, 1/4} is 4, and the LCD of {1/2, 1/3} is 6.

In non-mathematical use, the term is commonly used to refer to the target audience of mass media. It tends to be overused in this regard, or at least considered synonymous with "dumbest people". Action movies and most television programming are often considered to be targeted for the lowest common denominator of the population.