What does septuplet mean?
A septuplet is one of seven children born at the same time, or, more generally, one member of a group of seven. The word is especially associated with rare multiple births, for which it is both precise and concise. In musical notation and performance, a septuplet is a note or group of notes occupying the time normally given to a shorter group; a septuplet traditionally divides a note into seven equal parts. The word derives from the Latin numeral septem, meaning seven, and is related to forms such as septuple and septenary. Its distinctive ending makes it more specific than simply saying seven, while remaining readily understandable in contexts ranging from childbirth to musical performance.
One of a group of seven children born at the same time; more generally, one of a group of seven.
"Each septuplet was given a name beginning with a different letter of the alphabet."
The child-related sense is the dominant modern use.
One of seven musical notes played in the time normally occupied by four.
"The pianist played the difficult passage as a series of septuplets."
In music, septuplets divide a note or rest into seven equal parts.
Use the plural when referring to multiple members or groups of seven.
"The septuplets were born in a single delivery."
From Latin septem, meaning seven, a septuplet belongs to a rare sevenfold set.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does septuplet come from?
Septuplet comes through French from Latin septem, meaning seven, combined with the suffix -plet, which forms words indicating a small group or unit. The related English word septuple likewise refers to sevenfold or seven times, while septenary means consisting of or relating to seven. The musical sense developed from the established idea of dividing a note into equal parts, with a septuplet dividing it into seven.
Related word forms
How septuplet is actually used
The word is most commonly used for one of seven children born at the same time. In music, it refers to a rapid subdivision traditionally performed as a group of seven notes in the time of four.
Easily confused with septuplet
A septuplet is one of seven children or notes, whereas an octuplet is one of eight.