Nine Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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nine

[naɪn ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

number

The number equivalent to the sum of four and five; one more than eight.

Synonyms

9, nine-spot, ninefold.

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Word Description / Examples
nine

This again represents the number 9, similar to the first 'nine', and can be used interchangeably in most informal contexts.

  • She has nine pets.
  • I will call you at nine.
  • There are nine chapters in the book.
9

"9" is the numerical representation of nine and it is often used in writing, especially in formal contexts such as dates, measurements, times, or lists.

  • Please arrive by 9 AM.
  • His office is on the 9th floor.
  • The temperature today is 9 degrees Celsius.
ninefold

This term is used to indicate something that is multiplied by nine. It is often found in more formal or mathematical contexts.

  • Our profits increased ninefold this year.
  • The population has grown ninefold over the last decade.
nine-spot

This is a more specialized term, often used in reference to playing cards or gambling contexts to denote a card or item marked with nine spots, and it also can have a more casual, sometimes colloquial nuance.

  • He drew a nine-spot from the deck.
  • The lottery ticket had a nine-spot on it.

Examples of usage

  • I have nine apples in my basket.
  • She scored nine out of ten on the quiz.
  • There are nine planets in our solar system.
Context #2 | Noun

card game

A card game in which the player tries to collect cards in sets of three that total nine.

Synonyms

game of nine, nine card game.

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Word Description / Examples
nine

This is likely a repetition of the first 'nine', referring again to the numerical value.

  • She scored nine points in the game
game of nine

This phrase might be used to describe a game or activity involving the number nine in some way. This is less common and can be region-specific or related to certain traditions or rule sets in games.

  • Welcome to the game of nine, where each player must collect nine tokens to win
nine card game

Describes a card game involving the number nine, either in its rules, the cards used, or the number of cards played. This is very specific and might relate to a particular card game known to a certain group.

  • Have you ever played the nine card game? It's really fun and challenging!

Examples of usage

  • Let's play a round of nine after dinner.
  • He is very good at playing nine.
Context #3 | Noun

baseball

The player who wears the number nine on their uniform, typically associated with a skilled hitter.

Synonyms

nine hitter, player number nine.

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Word Description / Examples
nine

Use when referring to the numerical value between eight and ten.

  • She has nine cats at home.
  • We will meet at nine o'clock in the morning.
player number nine

Used in sports to refer to the player who wears the jersey with the number nine. Common in soccer to refer to the main striker.

  • Player number nine scored the winning goal in the final minute.
  • As player number nine, he is expected to lead the attack.
nine hitter

Used in baseball to describe the ninth player in the batting order. This player typically is not the strongest hitter in the team.

  • Our nine hitter managed to surprise us with a home run!
  • Despite being the nine hitter, he showed a lot of potential in his swings.

Examples of usage

  • He is the team's number nine and has the highest batting average.
  • The number nine is retired in honor of the legendary player who wore it.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Numerology

  • In numerology, nine is considered the number of wisdom and initiation, often seen as a symbol of completion.
  • Nines are associated with humanitarian efforts and the desire to serve others.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, nine is considered a lucky number. In Chinese culture, it symbolizes longevity and eternity.
  • The number nine appears prominently in fairy tales, like the nine lives of a cat, suggesting resilience.

Mathematics

  • Nine is the highest single-digit number in the decimal system, which is why it plays a key role in counting.
  • When multiplied by any number, the sum of the digits of the result will always reduce down to nine (e.g., 9 x 3 = 27, 2 + 7 = 9).

Science

  • In physics, there are nine known flavors of quarks, which are fundamental particles that make up protons and neutrons.
  • The solar system is home to eight planets, plus the dwarf planet Pluto, making it nine celestial bodies to explore.

Literature

  • The phrase 'dressed to the nines' suggests dressing elegantly, back to an idea of excellence or perfection.
  • William Shakespeare used nine as a reference point in his works, often symbolizing completeness or a journey.

Origin of 'nine'

The word 'nine' comes from the Old English 'nigon,' which is derived from the Proto-Germanic 'newun.' The number nine has been significant in various cultures and religions throughout history. In numerology, nine is often associated with completeness and attainment. In many belief systems, the number nine is considered lucky or sacred. In sports, the number nine is often associated with skilled players and is a popular choice for jerseys.


See also: ninefold, ninety.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #1,325, this word is part of core intermediate vocabulary. It appears regularly in various contexts and is essential for natural-sounding English.