The basis of the system of numerals (numeralia) in Indo-European languages is formed by the cardinalia (‘cardinal numbers’, e.g. Latin septem), to which correspond the derived forms of the ordinalia (‘ordinal numbers’, e.g. septimus) and multiplicatives (‘numeral adverbs’, e.g. septiēs). As elementary components of basic vocabulary, the lower cardinals are particularly resistant to replacement by borrowing or neologism and are therefore suited for proof of linguistic affinity. The first four Indo-European cardinal numbers were originally inflect…
Numerals(449 words)
Cite this page
Gippert, Jost (Frankfurt/Main), “Numerals”, in: Brill’s New Pauly, Antiquity volumes edited by: Hubert Cancik and , Helmuth Schneider, English Edition by: Christine F. Salazar, Classical Tradition volumes edited by: Manfred Landfester, English Edition by: Francis G. Gentry. Consulted online on 23 May 2022 <http://dx.doi.org/10.1163/1574-9347_bnp_e12214450>
First published online: 2006
First print edition: 9789004122598, 20110510
▲ Back to top ▲