| decemvir | Origin: L, fr. Decem ten + vir a man. 1. One of a body of ten magistrates in ancient Rome. The title of decemvirs was given to various bodies of Roman magistrates. The most celebrated decemvirs framed "the laws of the Twelve Tables," about 450 B. C, and had absolute authority for three years. 2. A member of any body of ten men in authority. Source: Websters Dictionary (01 Mar 1998) |
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