The word "quadrillion" is spelled with eight letters and three syllables. The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is /kwɒˈdrɪljən/. The first syllable "kwɒ" is pronounced like "qua" with a slight "k" sound at the beginning. The second syllable "drɪl" is pronounced like "dri-ll" with the stress on the first syllable. The final syllable "jən" is pronounced like "yun" with a soft "j" sound at the beginning. "Quadrillion" represents a number equal to a thousand trillion or a million billion.
Quadrillion is a numerical term often used in mathematics and finance to denote an extremely large number. It represents 1 followed by 15 zeros, or 1,000,000,000,000,000. It is considered a cardinal number and is a step higher than a trillion. The prefix "quadri-" refers to the number four, indicating that quadrillion is four orders of magnitude larger than a trillion.
To put it into perspective, if you were to count from one to a quadrillion at a rate of one number per second without any breaks, it would take you over 31,709,791 years to reach this immense number.
Quadrillion is often used in scientific calculations, economic measurements, or when discussing astronomical figures. For example, when referring to the estimated number of stars in the universe or the total value of a country's GDP. It is also employed in computing, as data storage capacities are measured in quadrillions of bytes (termed as petabytes).
Due to its vast magnitude, the term quadrillion isn't commonly used in everyday language. However, it is essential for comprehending and discussing the enormity of certain quantities, showcasing the vastness of the numerical system.
The fourth power of a million; or a unit with 24 ciphers, according to the Eng. system; a unit with 15 ciphers, according to the French or Italian system.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "quadrillion" is derived from the Latin word "quattuor" meaning "four" and the suffix "-illion" indicating a large, indefinite number. In mathematical terms, "quattuor" represents the quantity of four raised to the power of six. The term "quadrillion" was coined to refer to this enormous numerical value.