Fifth: meaning, definitions and examples
5️⃣
fifth
[ˈfɪfθ ]
Definitions
ordinal number
The number 5 in a series.
Synonyms
5th, number five.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fifth |
Use 'fifth' to refer to the position of someone or something in a sequence, especially in rankings, lists, or a queue.
|
| 5th |
Use '5th' in written contexts, especially in formal documents, dates, or when presenting data in a concise manner.
|
| number five |
Use 'number five' to specifically refer to the numeral 5, often in contexts where the exact number is important, such as in instructions, addresses, or when emphasizing the numeral itself.
|
Examples of usage
- It's my fifth time visiting this place.
- She finished fifth in the race.
fraction
One of five equal parts of a whole.
Synonyms
15, one fifth.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| fifth |
Refers to the ordinal number in the position following the fourth and preceding the sixth. This is used for ranking, sequences, or fractions (1/5).
|
| one fifth |
Describes a fraction, specifically 1 out of 5 equal parts. Used in contexts of division or distribution.
|
Examples of usage
- She ate a fifth of the pizza.
- It's time to add a fifth of the mixture.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word 'fifth' comes from the Old English 'fīfta', which is derived from the Proto-Germanic 'fimf', meaning five.
- In many languages, the term for fifth is closely related to the word for five, showing a common root in numeral systems.
- The suffix '-th' in 'fifth' indicates its position in a sequence, a pattern seen in other ordinal numbers like 'fourth' or 'tenth.'
Mathematics
- In a fraction, the term 'fifth' refers to one part of five equal parts, represented as 1/5.
- In music, the 'perfect fifth' is a specific interval that creates harmony and is essential for chord structure.
- The fifth power of a number means multiplying the number by itself five times. For example, 2 to the fifth power equals 32.
Cultural Significance
- In many traditions, the fifth anniversary is often celebrated with wood, signifying strength and stability.
- The concept of the fifth element, often linked to spirit or aether, appears in various cultures and is seen as vital to balance.
- The Fifth Amendment in the United States Constitution protects individuals from self-incrimination, illustrating its legal significance.
Pop Culture
- In film and television, the term 'fifth wheel' describes someone who feels superfluous or out of place among a group.
- The band 'Fifth Harmony' rose to fame on a reality show and became a symbol of empowerment for young women.
- The phrase 'fifth estate' refers to the public, particularly in the context of social media influencing politics and society.
Psychology
- Psychologists study how humans often perceive sequences, where fifth place can be regarded as mediating between extremes.
- In learning, the 'fifth stage' often refers to the advanced understanding or creative thinking stage in educational frameworks.
- The concept of ranking can influence self-esteem, where being 'fifth' might evoke feelings of both pride and insignificance depending on context.
Translations
Translations of the word "fifth" in other languages:
🇵🇹 quinto
🇮🇳 पाँचवाँ
🇩🇪 fünfte
🇮🇩 kelima
🇺🇦 п'ятий
🇵🇱 piąty
🇯🇵 五番目の
🇫🇷 cinquième
🇪🇸 quinto
🇹🇷 beşinci
🇰🇷 다섯 번째
🇸🇦 الخامس
🇨🇿 pátý
🇸🇰 piaty
🇨🇳 第五
🇸🇮 peti
🇮🇸 fimmti
🇰🇿 бесінші
🇬🇪 მეხუთე
🇦🇿 beşinci
🇲🇽 quinto