Definition

The number that comes after twelve and before fourteen, representing a quantity of 13.

Example

There are thirteen apples in the basket.

Conversation

Did you know that thirteen is considered an unlucky number in some cultures?

Yeah, I've heard that before, but I think it's just a superstition.

I find it interesting that so many people avoid it, especially on Friday the 13th.

True! It’s funny how numbers can have such different meanings for different people.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Thirteen → It originates from Old English 'þreotene' (meaning three ten), which combines 'three' (from Proto-Germanic *þrijō) and 'ten' (from Proto-Germanic *tehun). The word 'thirteen' literally means three added to ten, representing the number that follows twelve.

Memory Tip

Think of 'three' added to 'ten' to remember that 'thirteen' is the number that comes after twelve.

Visually Confused Words