Forty

Definition

Forty is a cardinal number representing the quantity or value equal to four times ten (40). It is also used as an adjective to describe something relating to this quantity.

Parts of Speech

• Numeral
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔːrti/
• Respelling: FOR-tee

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈfɔːti/
• Respelling: FAW-tee

Etymology

The word "forty" originates from Old English "feowertig," meaning "four times ten." It is derived from Proto-Germanic "*fedwōrtigaz" and Proto-Indo-European roots related to the number four (*kwetwor). The spelling "forty" became standardized in the 17th century, differing from its root word "four."

Derivatives

• Fortieth (adjective/noun)
• Fortyfold (adjective/adverb)
• Fortysomething (noun/adjective)
• Fortyish (adjective)
• Forty-year-old (noun/adjective)

Synonyms

• XL (Roman numeral)
• Four tens
• None (exact match)

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The numeral "forty" is used in counting, e.g., "She bought forty apples for the event." As an adjective, it describes something associated with the number 40, such as "The team scored forty points in the game."

Related Terms

• Number: A mathematical object used to count or measure.
• Cardinal number: A number denoting quantity.
• Ten: A base unit in the decimal system.

Detailed Definitions

Numeral

• A cardinal number representing four times ten: Refers to the numerical value 40.
  • Example: "There are forty students in the class."

Adjective

• Relating to the number forty: Describes anything associated with the quantity 40.
  • Example: "She celebrated her forty-year anniversary."