What does multiplicand mean?
A multiplicand is the number being multiplied in an arithmetic operation. In the expression 6 × 8, 6 is the multiplicand, while 8 is the multiplier, meaning the number by which the multiplicand is being multiplied. The distinction is useful when teaching or explaining multiplication because it identifies the two roles involved in the operation. Although the term is formally used for a number or quantity, the word belongs mainly to mathematics and is not often needed in ordinary conversation, where “the number being multiplied” is usually clearer. Multiplicand is related to multiplication, multiplier, and multiple through the Latin root associated with making something many or multiplying it. Remembering that the multiplicand is the number being multiplied—not the number doing the multiplying—makes the distinction easy to retain.
nounIn arithmetic, a multiplicand is the number or quantity being multiplied by another number. It is the counterpart of the multiplier; in 4 × 6, for example, 4 is the multiplicand.
- The number or quantity being multiplied by another number.
"In the calculation 7 × 9, the number 7 is the multiplicand and 9 is the multiplier."
"Write the number 12 as the multiplicand before multiplying it by 8."
"In long multiplication, students identify the multiplicand and multiplier before beginning the calculation."
The regular plural is used when referring to more than one number or quantity acting as multiplicands.
"The two multiplicands produce a product of 72."
The multiplicand does not multiply; it is the number being multiplied.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of multiplicand
The word entered English from Latin multiplicandus, meaning “to be multiplied,” a form derived from multiplicare, “to multiply.” Latin multiplicare is associated with multus, meaning “many,” and plicare, meaning “fold.” English later developed several related terms from this Latin family, including multiplication, multiplier, and multiple.
How multiplicand is actually used
This is chiefly a technical mathematical term, used especially in elementary arithmetic and formal explanations of multiplication. It is uncommon in everyday conversation.
Easily confused with multiplicand
The multiplicand is the number being multiplied, whereas the multiplier is the number doing the multiplying.