Meaning & use
12
The cardinal number equal to eleven plus one, written as 12 in Arabic numerals.
See it in a sentence
A standard carton holds twelve eggs, arranged in two rows of six.
She turned twelve years old on her birthday last week.
A note on using this word
As a slang term, '12' is used informally, especially in the US, to refer to the police, distinct from its use as a number.
Words with a similar meaning
Choose a synonym to suit the sentence. Meanings can overlap without being identical.
Another way to use it
2. noun
(US slang) The police, especially local law enforcement officers.
Someone shouted a warning that the 12 had just pulled up outside.
3. adjective
Used in film, game, and content ratings to indicate material suitable only for viewers aged twelve and over.
The movie was rated 12 for mild violence and some frightening scenes.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “12”, then compare your use with the examples above.