duodecimals

duodecimals

A teacher writes a duodecimals multiplication problem on the chalkboard.

Definition
  1. Noun (plural):
    • A system of arithmetic based on the number twelve: "duodecimals" refers to a mathematical system that uses twelve as its base, rather than ten (as in the decimal system). It is also known as the duodecimal or base-12 system.
    • The numbers or digits in this system: "duodecimals" can also mean the numerals or quantities expressed in this base-12 system.
Usage Examples

  • As a system:

    • The study of duodecimals is useful for understanding non-decimal counting systems. (The base-12 system is examined in mathematics.)
    • Some cultures historically used duodecimals for measurements, such as inches in a foot. (The base-12 system was applied to practical units.)

  • As numerals:

    • In duodecimals, the number ten is represented as 'A' and eleven as 'B'. (Specific digits are used for values beyond nine.)
Advanced Usage

  • "Duodecimals in commerce": the use of base-12 arithmetic in trade or pricing.

    • Before metrication, many goods were sold using duodecimals, such as 12 eggs per dozen. (A dozen is a common duodecimal unit.)

  • "Conversion to duodecimals": the process of translating decimal numbers into base-12 form.

    • Converting 144 (decimal) to duodecimals gives 100. (Since 144 equals 12², it is written as 100 in base 12.)
Variants and Related Words

  • Duodecimal (adj): relating to a system of numeration based on twelve.

    • The duodecimal system uses twelve as its base. (The adjective describes the numeric base.)

  • Duodecimal (n): a number expressed in base-12.

    • The duodecimal for 12 is 10. (A specific base-12 numeral.)

  • Duodecimally (adv): in a manner relating to base-12 arithmetic.

    • The measurement was duodecimally divided into twelfths. (The division followed base-12 logic.)
Synonyms
  • Base-12 system: a number system with twelve as the base.
  • Duodecimal system: the formal name for the base-12 numeration.
Related Idioms

  • "Counting by twelves": an informal phrase for using duodecimals.

    • He learned counting by twelves to understand duodecimals. (He practiced base-12 counting.)

  • "A dozen of this, a gross of that": referencing duodecimal units like dozen (12) and gross (144).

    • The baker used duodecimals, ordering a dozen of this, a gross of that. (The quantities are based on twelve.)