11

In English, many numbers have specific words that denote them, distinct from the number itself. For example "dozen" means group of 12; "gross" means 144; and "score" means 20. Similarly, I understand that French has the word "seizaine" meaning a group of 16, distinct from "seize", the word for the number 16 itself. (I don't actually know French, so I may be missing a subtlety here.)

Does Latin have any similar words for particular numbers?

6
  • I don't know if this applies but the words "primus" and "princeps" overlap somewhat in meaning. They can both mean "first."
    – Nickimite
    Aug 3, 2020 at 19:17
  • There are unspecific numbers of course, manipulus, group, platoon; manipulatim, in heaps (handfuls). Scala, a series, e.g. of notes, steps.
    – Hugh
    Aug 3, 2020 at 22:05
  • 5
    As an aside, seeing as you mention seizaine in French, the English dozen comes from the French douzaine :)
    – Rich
    Aug 4, 2020 at 6:54
  • In the etymology of "dozen" is also Latin: from Latin duodecim (“twelve”) (from duo (“two”) + decem (“ten”)) + -ana (“-ish”).
    – eckes
    Aug 4, 2020 at 8:21
  • 2
    I don't know if I would describe seizaine as completely separate from seize; -aine can be added to many numerals, so it's rather analogous to English -some (as in "threesome", "foursome", "fivesome", etc.).
    – ruakh
    Aug 4, 2020 at 21:58

2 Answers 2

8

I can think of at least these two:

  • decuria: A group of ten things or people
  • centuria: A group of a hundred people (not things), especially a military unit of 100, later 60 men
5

Latin borrowed a number of words from Greek, including some with numeric meanings, such as monas and trias.

There is also trīnitās, built out of Latin components.

Your Answer

By clicking “Post Your Answer”, you agree to our terms of service and acknowledge that you have read and understand our privacy policy and code of conduct.

Not the answer you're looking for? Browse other questions tagged or ask your own question.