First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
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
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Origin of DECEMVIR
Middle English, from Latin, back-formation from decemviri, plural, from decem + viri, plural of vir man — more at virile
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