decemvir

noun de·cem·vir \di-ˈsem-vər\

Definition of DECEMVIR

: one of a ruling body of 10; specifically : one of a body of 10 magistrates in ancient Rome

— de·cem·vi·ral \-vər-əl\ adjective

— de·cem·vi·rate \-vər-ət\ noun

Middle English, from Latin, back-formation from decemviri, plural, from decem + viri, plural of vir man — more at virile

First Known Use: 15th century

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