septenary

American  

[sep-tuh-ner-ee] / ˈsɛp təˌnɛr i /

adjective

1. of or relating to the number seven or forming a group of seven.

2. septennial.

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noun

plural

septenaries

1. a group or set of seven.

2. a period of seven years.

3. the number seven.

4. Prosody. a line of seven feet.

septenary British  

/ ˈsɛptɪnərɪ /

adjective

1. of or relating to the number seven

2. forming a group of seven

3. another word for septennial

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noun

1. the number seven

2. a group of seven things

3. a period of seven years

4. prosody a line of seven metrical feet

Etymology

Origin of septenary

First recorded in 1570–80; from Latin septēnārius “consisting of seven, containing seven,” equivalent to septēn(ī) “seven each” (derivative of sept(em) “seven” + -ēnī distributive suffix) + -ārius adjective suffix. See seven, -ary

Example Sentences

We find, therefore, tumbling verse, alexandrines, septenaries, and intricate strophic forms, all commonly written with slight regard for syllable-counting principles.

From Project Gutenberg

Behind each figure are rows of glyphs and in the upper corner to the left of the spectator is the septenary series headed by the initial-sign.

From Project Gutenberg

The Egyptians made use of a septenary system in the arrangement of the grand gallery in the center of the great pyramid.

From Project Gutenberg

It is septenary in constitution, as may be seen in its vibrations expressed in color and sound.

From Project Gutenberg

It is possible to think of the soul as a reincarnating entity, whether it be a monad, duad, triad, or septenary being.

From Project Gutenberg