6th Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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6th

[sɪksθ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

order, ranking

The term '6th' refers to the ordinal number indicating the position in a sequence immediately following the fifth and preceding the seventh. It is commonly used to denote rank, sequence or placement in various contexts.

Synonyms

sixth, the sixth.

Examples of usage

  • She finished in 6th place in the competition.
  • The 6th chapter of the book was particularly interesting.
  • My birthday is on the 6th of March.
  • He is in 6th grade this year.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In fractions, '6th' refers to one part of six equal parts, like slices of a pizza.
  • When dividing something, the sixth of a quantity helps us understand proportions and sharing.

Pop Culture

  • In the world of music, the sixth note in a scale often has a distinct emotional quality, frequently used in compositions.
  • In sports, teams compete for the sixth position, often pivotal in playoffs or rankings.

Days of the Week

  • In some cultures, the sixth day refers to Saturday, a day for rest and family activities.
  • Calendars often highlight the sixth of each month as important for various observances and events.

Historical Context

  • The sixth amendment in the U.S. Constitution guarantees the right to a fair trial, vital in the legal system.
  • In ancient Rome, the sixth legion played a significant role in many conquests, showcasing military importance.

Origin of '6th'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'sixth' comes from the Old English 'sixa' which means six.
  • Historically, English used various forms before settling into the term we know today, revealing changes in language over time.

The term 'sixth' originates from the Old English word 'sixta', which derives from the Proto-Germanic *sixthō and the Proto-Indo-European root *s(w)eiḱs, which means 'six'. It has evolved through various forms in different languages, but consistently retained its core meaning linked to the number six. 'Sixth' as an ordinal adjective is used in multiple contexts such as ranking, time, date, and sequence, reflecting the order of items or events. The use of 'th' as a suffix to form ordinal numbers is a characteristic feature of English grammar.