What does octuplet mean?
An octuplet is a group of eight, or one member of a set of eight babies born at the same time. The word is most familiar in reporting on rare multiple births, where it can refer either to the eight infants collectively or to any one of them: “The octuplets were transferred to the neonatal unit.” In more general contexts, it can describe any set of eight, though “group of eight” is often more natural. Its unusual sound is matched by its Greek- and Latin-derived vocabulary relatives, including octet, octave, and octuple. Although the word can sound playful or technical, it is an established part of English and is especially useful when the exact number eight is important.
A group or set of eight people or things.
"The committee formed an octuplet of specialists."
This sense is less common than the reference to eight babies born together.
One of eight babies born at the same time.
"The doctors carefully monitored the health of each octuplet."
This is the most common modern use, especially in news and medical contexts.
Use octuplets for multiple babies born at the same time or for multiple groups of eight, depending on context.
"The octuplets celebrated their first birthday together."
The word octuplet comes from the same root as octave and octet: a neat piece of eightness.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does octuplet come from?
The English word was borrowed from French octuplet and ultimately reflects Latin octo, meaning “eight.” It belongs to a family of English words based on that root, including octet, octave, and octuple, as well as the similarly related octavo.
Related word forms
How octuplet is actually used
The word is relatively uncommon. In modern usage, it is especially associated with multiple births, while in other contexts it may sound formal or literary.
Easily confused with octuplet
An octet is a group or arrangement of eight, especially in music or literary contexts, whereas an octuplet more commonly denotes one baby in a set of eight born together.