forty

for-ty · numeral

imported

Definitions

numeral

  1. 1.

    The number equivalent to four times ten; 40.

  2. 2.

    Used to denote a quantity of forty items or units.

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    forty winks — a short nap or sleep
  • •
    the roaring forties — the stormy latitudes between 40 and 50 degrees south
  • •
    life begins at forty — a saying suggesting middle age brings new opportunities

Related words

See also: fortieth, four, fourteen, fourth

Etymology

From Old English feowertig, composed of feower ("four") + -tig (group of ten), related to Gothic fidwor tigjus.