Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

decemvir

noun

/dɛsˈɛmˌvɪr/

Definition

A member of a board of ten officials in ancient Rome.

Examples

The decemvirs were crucial in the establishment of the Twelve Tables in ancient Rome.
In a historical context, a decemvir could be tasked with overseeing a specific legal matter.

Meaning

The term ‘decemvir’ comes from the Latin roots where ‘decem’ means ten, and ‘vir’ means man. It refers specifically to a group that was responsible for various tasks, including the creation of laws.