Sixtieth Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐ŸŽ‰
Add to dictionary

sixtieth

[หˆsษชkstiษ™ฮธ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

ordinal number

The term 'sixtieth' refers to the ordinal form of the number sixty. It is used to denote the position of an item in a sequence, specifically indicating that it is the sixtieth in line. This term is commonly used in various contexts such as celebrations, milestones, and academic achievements. For example, one could refer to a sixtieth wedding anniversary as a significant milestone in a couple's life. Similarly, the sixtieth element in the periodic table is known as neodymium.

Synonyms

60th, ordinal, ranked.

Examples of usage

  • She celebrated her sixtieth birthday with a big party.
  • The sixtieth chapter of the book contains the climax.
  • He achieved his sixtieth win in the tournament.
  • Their sixtieth wedding anniversary is next year.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • Sixteenth, thirty-sixth, and sixtieth are all fractions where the denominator is a power of two, making them important in calculations.
  • Sixtieth is often used in measurements and time, such as grading music notes in sixtieth of a second for precision.
  • In geometry, a sixtieth of a degree can be used for very detailed angles, which is important in designs and engineering.

Cultural Significance

  • In the context of anniversaries, a sixtieth anniversary is called a diamond wedding anniversary, representing lasting love.
  • Traditionally, the sixtieth day of the lunar calendar is celebrated in several Asian cultures, marking the end of a significant period in life.
  • There are 60 seconds in a minute and 60 minutes in an hour, showing this number's fundamental role in timekeeping.

Historical Context

  • The ancient Babylonians used a base-60 numbering system, influencing how we measure time and angles today.
  • In Roman times, the numeral 'LX' represented sixty, showing its longstanding importance in numbering systems.
  • The concept of subdividing hundred into sixtieths has been used historically in areas of trade and calculation.

Language

  • Sixtieth is a combination of 'sixty' and the suffix '-th', which is used to denote ordinal numbers in English.
  • The structure of sixtieth is similar to other ordinal numbers like twentieth and thirtieth, showcasing language patterns.
  • This number is often encountered in educational settings to discuss topics such as ranking or sequences.

Pop Culture

  • Notable events such as sixtieth birthdays or anniversaries are often celebrated with grand parties in movies and television.
  • In books and films, reaching a sixtieth milestone often represents wisdom or accomplishment, influencing character development.
  • Music and other media sometimes mark the sixtieth episode or season as a significant point for storytelling.

Origin of 'sixtieth'

The word 'sixtieth' has its origins in Old English, stemming from the numerals used historically to represent number sequences. The Old English term 'sixti,' akin to similar words in other Germanic languages, such as Old High German 'sixti' and Dutch 'zestig,' marked the number sixty. The addition of the suffix '-eth' is a common linguistic feature in English that indicates the ordinal form of a number. This formative structure can be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European language, where numerical and cardinal concepts were established. Over the centuries, the use of ordinal numbers, including 'sixtieth,' became a standardized part of English grammar, particularly in formal contexts such as literature, mathematics, and educational settings. Today, it is widely understood and used in both spoken and written English when referring to the order or rank of something among a larger set.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,835, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.