duumvir
1
9.9
One of two people who share public power, for example city leaders in ancient Rome
- noun
- /ˈduːəmˌvɪr/
- Archaic
:
duumvir
- A duumvir was appointed to oversee the fair distribution of resources during the crisis.
Examples
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In ancient Rome, a duumvir often had significant power.
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In ancient Rome, each duumvir had equal authority in the administration of the city.
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The committee was led by a duumvir who shared responsibilities with his colleague.
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The duumvir ruled the city with an iron fist.
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In ancient Rome, a duumvir was responsible for maintaining public order.
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The two duumvirs worked together to implement new laws in their city.
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As duumvirs, they shared power equally during their term in office.
Surface Forms
Etymology
Duumvir comes from the Latin parts duo 'two' and vir 'man', and is like the English word 'duo' which means a pair. In ancient Rome it named an official who shared power with one other person, so a duumvir is one of two people ruling together.