The numerator is the top number of a fraction, and it counts how many equal parts you have. In three quarters, the numerator 3 means you have three of the four pieces the whole was divided into.
Math Dictionary / Numerator
Numerator
The numerator is the top number in a fraction.
Number SystemGrade 3Grade 4Grade 5Grade 6GED
What it means
It tells how many parts are being counted.
Also called: top number of a fraction
Examples
| In 3/5, the numerator is 3 |
| In 7/8, the numerator is 7 |
| In 1/2, the numerator is 1 |
Common mistake
Do not swap numerator and denominator. Numerator is on top.
Try one
Question: What is the numerator in 9/10?
Show answer
The numerator is 9.