ˈdʌzn n. 1 (prec. by a or a number) (pl. dozen)
twelve, regarded collectively (a dozen eggs;
two dozen packets; ordered
three dozen). 2 a set or
group of twelve (packed in dozens). 3 colloq.
about twelve, a
fairly large indefinite number. 4 (in
pl.; usu. foll. by of) colloq.
very many (made
dozens of mistakes). 5 (the dozens) a
Black American game or ritualized
exchange of
verbal insults. øby
the dozen in large quantities.
talk nineteen to the dozen
Brit. talk incessantly. øødozenth adj. & n. [ME f. OF dozeine, ult. f. L duodecim twelve]