Tenfold Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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tenfold

[ˈtɛnfoʊld ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adverb

multiplicative increase

Tenfold means to increase something by ten times its original amount. This term is often used in mathematical contexts or discussions regarding growth in various sectors such as finance or population. It implies a significant surge or expansion in size or number. For example, if an investment grows tenfold, it means the initial amount has multiplied by ten.

Synonyms

decuple, ten times, ten times greater.

Examples of usage

  • The company's profits increased tenfold last year.
  • Her savings account grew tenfold over the decade.
  • The population of the city expanded tenfold within a generation.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Mathematics

  • In mathematics, 'tenfold' is a form of multiplicative increase, meaning if you have 1 unit and it becomes ten units, that's a tenfold increase.
  • Often used in finance to discuss profits or costs, such as a tenfold rise in sales indicating significant growth.
  • The concept of folding can relate to geometric shapes, where increasing dimensions by tenfold affects area and volume dramatically.

Cultural References

  • In literature, 'tenfold' is often used to emphasize dramatic changes or transformations in character or situation.
  • The phrase 'tenfold increase' appears frequently in studies relating to population growth, economics, and social issues.
  • Tenfold is sometimes referenced in motivational speeches to encourage making substantial improvements in personal goals.

Science

  • In science, tenfold changes often indicate a significant impact in experiments, such as a tenfold increase in chemical reactions or results.
  • Biodiversity loss is sometimes described in tenfold terms, highlighting severe declines in species populations over decades.
  • When analyzing data, scientists often note tenfold changes to emphasize critical findings or alarming trends.

Business

  • In the business world, tenfold growth is a benchmark indicating that a company has dramatically improved or expanded its operations.
  • Investors look for companies showing tenfold increases in revenue as signs of success and future potential.
  • Marketing strategies often aim for tenfold returns on investment, motivating campaigns to maximize profits.

Origin of 'tenfold'

Main points about word origin

  • The word combines 'ten', representing the number 10, and 'fold', which means to multiply or increase.
  • It's been used in the English language since the Middle Ages, showing how numbers have been important for a long time.
  • The suffix 'fold' comes from old words meaning to bend or double, linking to the idea of increasing.

The term 'tenfold' originated in the English language from the combination of 'ten' and 'fold.' The word 'ten' has its roots in the Proto-Indo-European term *dekwm, which referred to the number ten. The term 'fold' comes from the Old English 'faldan', which means to fold or multiply. The usage of 'fold' in this sense denotes multiplication and has been used in various forms throughout history. The combination of these two elements results in the meaning of 'multiplied by ten.' The term has seen various applications over the centuries, primarily in mathematical, financial, and statistical contexts where exponential growth or ratios are discussed. Today, it is commonly used in both spoken and written language to describe dramatic increases or changes in various fields.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,698, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.