Septuagesimal is a word that refers to the number seventy or to something that relates to the seventh decade. The word is spelled as /ˌsɛptjʊdʒɛsɪməl/ in IPA phonetic transcription. This word’s spelling can be broken down into four syllables, with the first two syllables being pronounced as ‘sep’ and ‘tju’ respectively. The third syllable ‘dʒɛsɪm’ is pronounced with a ‘j’ sound while the final syllable ‘əl’ is pronounced with an ‘əl’ sound.
Septuagesimal refers to something that is related to or based on the number seventy. The term is derived from the Latin word "septuagesimus," meaning seventieth. It is often used in various fields, including mathematics, religion, and timekeeping systems.
In mathematics, septuagesimal can refer to the base-60 numeral system, which is used in calculating time and angles. This system was prominently used by the ancient Babylonians, as well as in the measurement of time in ancient Mesopotamia. In the modern context, septuagesimal is mainly used to describe the division of degrees and minutes in circular measurements, such as geographical coordinates and geographic directions.
Within religious contexts, "Septuagesima" refers to a liturgical period that occurs approximately seventy days before Easter in certain Christian traditions, such as the Roman Catholic Church and the Anglican Communion. It signifies a time of preparation and reflection leading up to the Lenten season.
Furthermore, septuagesimal can also denote an age or duration of approximately seventy years. It may be used to describe a person or an event that occurs at or relates to the age of seventy, or an interval of roughly seventy years.
Overall, the term septuagesimal encompasses a range of concepts related to the number seventy, covering mathematical systems, religious periods, and spans of time.
• Consisting of seventy.
• Consisting of seventy: counted by seventies.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word septuagesimal has its roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word septuagesimus, which means seventieth. The term is formed by combining septuagesimus with the suffix -al, which is used to form adjectives. Septuagesimal is used to describe something relating to the number seventy or a period of seventy. It is commonly used in Christian liturgical contexts to refer to the 70-day period preceding Easter Sunday, known as the Septuagesima.