Twelve

Definition

Twelve refers to the cardinal number equivalent to 10 + 2, or the number following eleven and preceding thirteen.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Adjective

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /twɛlv/
• Respelling: TWELV

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /twɛlv/
• Respelling: TWELV

Etymology

The word "twelve" originates from Old English "twelf," derived from Proto-Germanic "*twalif," meaning "two left (after ten)." It combines "twa" (two) and "lif" (to remain or leave), reflecting its position in the sequence of numbers.

Derivatives

• Twelfth (ordinal number)
• Twelvemonth (noun, archaic, meaning a year)
• Dozen (noun, related)
• Twelver (noun, informal)
• Twelfthly (adverb, rare)

Synonyms

• Dozen
• 12
• Two tens and two

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The word "twelve" is commonly used to denote a count or quantity, as in "There are twelve months in a year." It is also used in contexts like "She bought a dozen eggs, which equals twelve."

Related Terms

• Dozen: A group of twelve.
• Twelfth: The ordinal form of twelve.
• Numeral: A symbol representing a number.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• The number 12: Refers to the numerical value following eleven and preceding thirteen.
  • Example: "There are twelve players on the team."
• A group or set of 12 items: Refers to a collection or unit consisting of twelve.
  • Example: "He bought a twelve of beer."

Adjective

• Relating to or being 12 in number: Describes a quantity or amount equal to twelve.
  • Example: "She has twelve books on her shelf."