English Reference
numeral · noun

twelve

num. · n.
US /ˈtwɛɫv/ UK /twˈɛlv/ twelve

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

    num.the number that comes after eleven and before thirteen.

    num.the cardinal number occurring after eleven and before thirteen, represented by the Arabic numerals 12.

    Simple

    There are twelve months in a year.

    In context

    The clock struck twelve, signaling the end of the shift and the beginning of the holiday weekend.

    a dozen
  2. 02 A2 Elementary

    n.a set or group containing twelve things.

    n.a collection or set consisting of twelve units.

    Simple

    She bought a pack of twelve eggs from the local market.

    In context

    The jury was composed of a twelve who had to decide the fate of the defendant based on the evidence presented.

  3. 03 C1 Advanced SlangAmerican English Law

    n.a slang word for the police, especially officers who look for drugs.

    n.a slang term for law enforcement, specifically narcotics officers or the police in general.

    Simple

    Everyone stopped talking when they saw twelve driving down the street.

    In context

    The lookout shouted a warning when he spotted twelve approaching the building from the rear entrance.

    Usage

    Usually used without an article in African American Vernacular English (AAVE).

  4. 04 B2 Upper Intermediate Informal Law

    n.the group of twelve people in a court who decide if someone is guilty.

    n.a collective reference to a trial jury, traditionally composed of twelve members.

    Simple

    He decided to trust his case to the twelve rather than take a deal.

    In context

    The defense attorney spent hours selecting the twelve, hoping to find individuals sympathetic to his client's unique circumstances.

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Common
Updated