septenary

[ sep-tuh-ner-ee ]

adjective

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

noun

, plural sep·te·nar·ies.

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

/ ˈsɛptɪnərɪ /

adjective

1. of or relating to the number seven
2. forming a group of seven
3. another word for septennial

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of septenary¹

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of septenary¹

C16: from Latin septēnārius, from septēnī seven each, from septem seven

Example Sentences

In this play the alexandrine is the dominant measure, though mingled with occasional septenaries still.

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

Some authors pretend to assume that this well marked septenary system has reference to the Pleiades or Seven stars.

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