Meaning & Definition of word "Dozen"

Dozen

/ˈdʌzən/

noun:

  • 1. A group or set of twelve items.
    • Example: We bought a dozen eggs from the grocery store.
  • 2. A quantity of twelve.
    • Example: The recipe calls for a dozen roses to be used in the bouquet.
  • 3. Used informally to refer to a large number or group.
    • Example: He has a dozen reasons for wanting to move.

Etymology

From Middle English 'dozen', from Old French 'dozaine', from Latin 'duodecim' meaning 'twelve'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

a dime a dozen:

something very common or easy to find.

dozens of:

a large number of something.

baker's dozen:

thirteen, often used for a unit of baked goods.

Related Words

dozenal:

relating to or based on twelve.

dozenaire:

someone who has a dozen of something.

Slang Meanings of dozen

Meaning: Baker's dozen

Example Sentence: When I asked for a dozen cookies, the baker gave me a baker's dozen.

Meaning: Dozens

Example Sentence: He has dozens of baseball cards collected over the years.