Definition of fraction

The word "fraction" originates from the Latin "fractio," which means "breaking" or "shattering." This Latin term is derived from the verb "frangere," which means "to break." In the 15th century, the term "fraction" was borrowed into Middle English from Old French "fraction," which was itself borrowed from Latin. In the context of mathematics, a fraction refers to a number that represents a part of a whole. It is typically written in the form of a ratio, where the numerator (the top number) is divided by the denominator (the bottom number). The concept of fractions dates back to ancient civilizations, such as the Babylonians and Egyptians, who used them in their mathematical computations. However, the modern mathematical notation and terminology, including the use of the word "fraction," emerged during the Middle Ages.