decimals Vocabulary
JamWise Education TeamยทUpdated March 2026
The decimals strand is a core part of the K-8 math curriculum. It encompasses 8 vocabulary terms that students encounter as they progress from kindergarten through 8th grade. Each term builds on previous knowledge, creating a spiral of deepening understanding that prepares learners for increasingly complex concepts.
Understanding decimals vocabulary is essential for classroom discussions, assessments, and real-world application. Below you will find every term organized by grade level, so teachers and parents can quickly identify which words are appropriate for their students and explore definitions tailored to each developmental stage.
4th Grade
(5 terms)
Decimal
A number that uses a decimal point to show a value between two whole numbers. 3.5 is between 3 and 4.
Decimal fraction
A fraction with a denominator of 10 or 100, which can be written as a decimal. 3/10 = 0.3.
Decimal point
The dot in a decimal number that separates the whole number part from the fractional part.
Hundredths
The second place to the right of the decimal point. In 0.25, the 5 is in the hundredths place, meaning 25 out of 100.
Tenths
The first place to the right of the decimal point. In 0.3, the 3 is in the tenths place, meaning 3 out of 10 equal parts.
5th Grade
(5 terms)Decimal
A number with digits to the right of a decimal point, showing values less than one whole. 3.75 has a whole part (3) and a decimal part (.75).
Decimal point
The dot in a decimal number that separates the whole-number part on the left from the fractional part on the right.
Equivalent decimals
Decimals that have the same value. 0.5, 0.50, and 0.500 are all equivalent because they represent the same amount.
Rounding decimals
Replacing a decimal with the nearest whole number, tenth, or hundredth. 3.47 rounds to 3.5 (nearest tenth).
Thousandths
The third place to the right of the decimal point. In 0.125, the 5 is in the thousandths place, meaning 5 out of 1,000 parts.