Meaning & Definition of word "Twelve"

Twelve

/twɛlv/

numeral:

  • 1. The cardinal number equal to 11 plus 1.
    • Example: There are twelve months in a year.
  • 2. The number following eleven; the number preceding thirteen.
    • Example: She turned twelve years old last week.
  • 3. A symbol representing this number, often used in mathematical contexts.
    • Example: The clock struck twelve, marking midnight.
  • 4. A group of twelve, often used in counting or grouping.
    • Example: The baker made a dozen, which is twelve baked goods.

Etymology

From Old English 'twelf', from Proto-Germanic '*twalif', derived from 'two' + 'left' (the number left after ten).

Common Phrases and Expressions

the Twelve:

Refers to the twelve apostles in Christianity.

twelve-hour clock:

A clock that uses a 12-hour time format.

Related Words

duodecimal:

Relating to a system of counting based on twelve.

dozen:

A group of twelve.

Slang Meanings of twelve

Meaning: A slang term for a dozen.

Example Sentence: I'll have a twelve of those beers.

Meaning: Used informally to refer to twelve items.

Example Sentence: I bought a twelve of eggs.