This paper presents a potential ethnographical framework for examining in-situ adult mathematical practices. It results from a meta-analysis of over 400 articles and reports published on adult mathematics and numeracy practices in the workplace, everyday life, and assorted other situations where numeracy is present (for example, sports events). The framework is also informed by a combination of my own academic sociolinguistic and mathematical backgrounds. Consequently, it draws on a synergy of insights from sociomathematics, ethnomathematics, social practices theory, and the history of mathematics. It is envisioned that this ethnographic framework may assist in excavating mathematical practices at multiples levels (semiotic, material, discursive and diverse others), and thus provide a way forward to offering ,among other things some pedagogical insights on the teaching and learning of mathematics for adults.