Decemviral is an adjective that is derived from the Latin word "decemviri," which means "ten men." In ancient Rome, it refers to the government of ten men, usually appointed to prepare a new code of laws for the society.
The term decemviral is most commonly used to describe something related to or characteristic of the power or authority exercised by such a group of ten men. It can also pertain to the laws, decrees, or institutions that were established during their rule.
In a broader sense, decemviral can also describe any situation or entity characterized by the exercise of arbitrary or dictatorial power by a small group of individuals. It implies a distinct concentration of authority and decision-making in the hands of a limited number of people, often leading to a lack of accountability and potential abuse of power.
The term may also be applied to describe an oppressive or autocratic form of governance or rule where power is concentrated in the hands of a few individuals. This could include instances where a small council or group exercises significant control over the affairs of a larger organization, institution, or government.
Overall, the adjective decemviral encompasses the concept of governance or authority by a group of ten individuals, and more generally, the concentration of power and decision-making in the hands of a limited number of people.
Pert. to.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "decemviral" comes from the Latin word "decemviralis", which is derived from "decemviri".
The term "decemviri" refers to a group of ten men in ancient Rome who were appointed to form a committee or commission for various purposes. The most well-known use of the term "decemviri" is in reference to the "Decemviri Legibus Scribundis Consulari Imperio" or "the Ten Men Commission with Consular Authority for Writing the Laws".
This commission was established in 451 BC in response to a political crisis, and their task was to draft a set of laws known as the Twelve Tables. These laws became the foundation of Roman law and society. The term "decemviral" is thus associated with this historic event and the authority and power wielded by the decemviri.