# xii

CEFR B2 · Numeral

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/xii
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

the number twelve written in Roman numerals. You see this on old clocks, in history books, or at the end of movie credits.

For teachers: the Roman numeral representation of the cardinal number twelve. Often used in formal contexts such as clock faces, chapter headings, or the names of monarchs.

## Examples

- The clock struck XII just as we arrived.
- In many history textbooks, the century is written as XII to denote the 1100s.
- The manuscript was divided into XII distinct sections, each beginning with an ornate capital letter and a brief summary of the upcoming theological arguments.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as a noun or a determiner; often capitalized in all contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.