duodecimal system
- noun
- /ˌduːəˈdɛsɪməl ˈsɪstəm/
- Specialized
:
sistema duodecimal
- Some ancient cultures used the duodecimal system for counting and calculations.
Examples
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The duodecimal system requires twelve different digits instead of the usual ten.
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Interest in the duodecimal system persists among mathematicians studying alternative numeral bases.
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The duodecimal system is fascinating to study.
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Many ancient cultures used a duodecimal system for counting.
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The ancient civilization used the duodecimal system for trade and accounting, making calculations easier with its base of twelve.
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In mathematics, the duodecimal system allows for the representation of numbers using digits from 0 to 11, providing a unique perspective compared to base ten.
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Some cultures prefer the duodecimal system because it aligns with counting on fingers, using three digits on each hand to reach twelve.
Synonyms
A way of writing numbers that uses twelve as its base and digits 0 to 11
A number system that uses twelve symbols to write numbers
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'a numeral system based on twelve' is directly and compositionally derived from 'duodecimal' (pertaining to base‑12) + 'system' (a set of rules or structure). There is no idiomatic or metaphorical shift — the adjective simply specifies the type of system — so a learner who knows both constituents can infer the MWE's meaning.
Etymology
Duodecimal system comes from an old counting trick: people used the thumb to point to the three joints on each of the four fingers, making twelve counts on one hand. That's why 'duodecimal' means a number system with 'twelve' as its 'base', so it uses twelve different digits instead of ten.
