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Etymology: The origins of English words and phrases. Anchor/Reporter NBC and CBS Networks. News Director 3 Regional Radio Stations.

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Etymology (Meaning of Words) - Origin of the word "dozen"

Expert: Carol Pozefsky - 1/10/2008

Question
Hi Carol,

I was wondering where "dozen" comes from and why we like to group things in dozens. For example, why isn't there another word for 17 things?

I've found a few things on the origin of "baker's dozen" but why were they baking 12 things to begin with??

Thanks!

-Gavin

Answer

Hello, I hope you're having a fine week,
    The word 'dozen' stems from the Old French word 'dozeine' meaning twelve.
As you clearly have now discovered, a baker's dozen means thirteen, the number of baked items generous bakers of old provided for the price of twelve items
    The best to you always, Carol P.

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