THOUSANDS meaning and definition

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The Significance of Thousands: What Does This Numerical Term Really Mean?

In everyday language, we often come across the term "thousands." We might say, "I've earned thousands from my part-time job" or "The new smartphone costs thousands." But have you ever stopped to think about what this numerical term really means?

Origins of Thousands

To understand the concept of thousands, let's travel back in time to ancient civilizations. The Babylonians, around 3000 BCE, used a sexagesimal (base-60) system that included a unit called "thous" or "thousand." This term referred to a large quantity of goods, likely equivalent to about 1,000 units of measurement. The concept of thousands was further refined by the ancient Greeks and Romans, who used it to express large quantities.

What Does Thousands Mean Today?

In modern times, thousands refers to an integer multiple of 1,000. In other words, if you have a certain number of items or dollars that can be divided into groups of 1,000, you've reached the threshold of "thousands." For instance:

If you have $10,000 in your bank account, you've earned thousands.
If you've sold 3,000 units of your product, you've reached a milestone.

The term "thousands" is often used to convey a sense of magnitude or importance. When we say someone has earned thousands, it implies that their income or profit is substantial and worthy of note. Similarly, when discussing the cost of an item or service, saying it costs thousands emphasizes its value or luxury nature.

Interesting Facts About Thousands

Here are some fascinating facts about the concept of thousands:

In some languages, such as French and German, the word for "thousand" is not a simple multiplication of "one hundred." Instead, it's a separate term that has evolved from ancient roots.
The largest known number written in base-10 (our familiar decimal system) is 3,402,221, which includes thousands of digits. This number was discovered by mathematician Peter S. Turney in 2017.
In some cultures, the concept of thousands is not as prominent as it is in Western societies. For example, many Asian languages use different numerals to express large quantities.

Conclusion

The term "thousands" has a rich history and continues to play an important role in our everyday language. Whether we're discussing finances, productivity, or simply expressing the magnitude of something impressive, knowing what thousands mean can help us better communicate and appreciate its significance. So next time you say, "I've earned thousands," remember that this numerical term is rooted in ancient traditions and has evolved into a powerful tool for conveying meaning and value.

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