decemvirate

American  

[dih-sem-ver-it, -vuh-reyt] / dɪˈsɛm vər ɪt, -vəˌreɪt /

noun

1. a board or group of decemvirs.

2. the office or government of decemvirs.

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decemvirate British  

/ -ˌreɪt, dɪˈsɛmvɪrɪt /

noun

1. a board of decemvirs

2. the rule or rank of decemvirs

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Etymology

Origin of decemvirate

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

Example Sentences

So, for example, the Romans might have spoken of a decemvirate after the time of Appius.

From The Olynthiacs and the Phillippics of Demosthenes Literally translated with notes by Kennedy, Charles Rann

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

From The Great Events by Famous Historians, Volume 02 (From the Rise of Greece to the Christian Era) by Horne, Charles F. (Charles Francis)

But they soon threw off the mask of moderation, and, regardless of the approbation of the senate or the people, resolved to continue, against all order, in the decemvirate.

From Pinnock's improved edition of Dr. Goldsmith's History of Rome to which is prefixed an introduction to the study of Roman history, and a great variety of valuable information added throughout the work, on the manners, institutions, and antiquities of the Romans; with numerous biographical and historical notes; and questions for examination at the end of each section. By Wm. C. Taylor. by Pinnock, William

In this matter of the decemvirate we may likewise note the ease wherewith men become corrupted, and how completely, although born good and well brought up, they change their nature.

From Discourses on the First Decade of Titus Livius by Thomson, Ninian Hill

The five that had already fallen when John received the vision were the regal power, the consular, the decemvirate, the military tribunes, and the triumvirate.

From The Last Reformation by Smith, F. G. (Frederick George)