sixe

Sixe is an archaic or dialectal variant spelling of the English numeral six. In historical texts, especially from the Middle English and Early Modern English periods, writers occasionally used the form "sixe" where modern English would use "six." The form fell out of standard use as spelling conventions standardized in the 17th century.

Etymology and orthography: The variation reflects the broader practice of representing final -e in early English manuscripts. The final -e often did not indicate pronunciation but functioned as a marker of spelling tradition in scribal hands.

Usage: The form is primarily found in primary sources and editions that aim to reproduce early spelling. In modern English, "sixe" is considered obsolete and is typically encountered only in philological discussions or historical editions.

Cultural and linguistic significance: The word shows how English spelling varied before standardization and helps linguists study changes in orthographic practices. See also: six, Middle English, Early Modern English, orthography.