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  

/ dɪˈsɛmvɪrɪt, -ˌreɪt /

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

See Examples For:

decemvirate

Jacobs understands the word decemvirate not to refer to any positive form of government, but generally to designate a tyranny, such as that which the Lacedaemonians used to introduce into conquered cities.

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

When, on the appointment of the decemvirate, it seemed to the commons that Appius had become favourable to their cause, and was ready to attack the nobles, they inclined to support him.

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

In creating the decemvirate, therefore, both the senate and the people made grave mistakes.

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

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 F. G. (Frederick George) Smith

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 William Pinnock