decemvirate

[ dih-sem-ver-it, -vuh-reyt ]

noun

1. a board or group of decemvirs.
2. the office or government of decemvirs.

decemvirate

/ -ˌreɪt; dɪˈsɛmvɪrɪt /

noun

1. a board of decemvirs
2. the rule or rank of decemvirs

Word History and Origins

Origin of decemvirate¹

From the Latin word decemvirātus, dating back to 1610–20. See decemvir, -ate ³

Example Sentences

The decemvirate instituted at Rome; the Twelve Tables of law framed.

From Project Gutenberg

Two years were spent by this commission, and upon their return in 452 the above mentioned Decemvirate was appointed.

From Project Gutenberg

The lore was complete about the time of the decemvirate, but decreta must have been continually added (p. 23).

From Project Gutenberg

On the whole we may put the great period of the college between the decemvirate and the war with Hannibal.

From Project Gutenberg