Definition
In a multiplication problem, the multiplicand is the number that is being multiplied by another number. In the expression 6 × 4, the 6 is the multiplicand and the 4 is the multiplier.
Plain English
The number you start with before multiplying it by something else.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation math explanations, especially weight-and-balance, fuel, and performance calculations.
Derivation
From the Latin multiplicandus, meaning 'that which is to be multiplied.' The '-and' ending in English math terms (multiplicand, dividend, addend) consistently marks the number being acted upon.
Why Pilots Care
Pilots use multiplication in many routine calculations. Knowing what a formula means by multiplicand helps prevent mixing up the numbers in the calculation.
Intuition Check
Do not read multiplicand as the answer to a multiplication problem. It is one of the numbers used to get the answer.
Example Sentence 1
In the weight-and-balance calculation 180 × 42, the multiplicand is 180 pounds and the multiplier is the 42-inch arm.
Example Sentence 2
In the moment equation, the arm distance serves as the multiplicand when multiplied by the weight.