How Do You Spell DECEMVIR?

Pronunciation: [dɪsˈɛmvi͡ə] (IPA)

Decemvir is a Latin word meaning "one of ten magistrates." Its pronunciation is dek-em-vir, with the stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced like "deck," the second syllable like "em" and the third syllable like "veer." The spelling of this word is based on the Latin alphabet, which uses the letter "c" to represent the sound of "k" before the vowels "e" and "i". Therefore, the "c" in "decemvir" is pronounced like "k."

DECEMVIR Meaning and Definition

1. Decemvir refers to a member of a council of ten individuals, specifically the ancient Roman council. The term originates from the Latin word "decem" meaning "ten" and "vir" meaning "man" or "member." In ancient Rome, a decemvirate was a form of government consisting of ten magistrates or officials who held power for a specified duration, usually one year.

   The position of a decemvir was first established around 451 BCE in response to the social and political unrest within Roman society. The decemvirate was tasked with drafting laws and codes that would provide a more fair and just legal system for the Roman population. One of the most famous examples of such law codes was the Twelve Tables, which formed the basis of Roman law for centuries.

   The decemvirs held considerable authority and were responsible for the governance of Rome during their term. They had the power to interpret and enforce laws, as well as to make decisions on matters of public significance. Their role was crucial in shaping the legal and political landscape of ancient Rome.

   While the concept of a decemvir was specific to ancient Rome, the term decemvirate has also been used metaphorically to describe a group of ten individuals holding temporary or shared power in other historical or literary contexts.

2. One of the magistrates of anc. Rome, who possessed absolute power.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for DECEMVIR

• secemvir
• xecemvir
• cecemvir
• fecemvir
• recemvir
• eecemvir
• dwcemvir
• dscemvir
• ddcemvir
• drcemvir
• d4cemvir
• d3cemvir
• dexemvir
• devemvir
• defemvir
• dedemvir
• decwmvir
• decsmvir
• decdmvir

Etymology of DECEMVIR

The word "decemvir" has its roots in Latin. It is derived from two Latin words: "decem", meaning "ten", and "vir", meaning "man" or "person". In ancient Rome, the Decemviri were a group of ten officials who were appointed to hold special powers and responsibilities. The term "Decemvir" became associated with this specific role and was used to refer to individuals who held this position or were part of a similar governing body.

Similar spelling words for DECEMVIR

• deceive,
• deceiver,
• december.

Plural form of DECEMVIR is DECEMVIRI OR DECEMVIRS