tenth

Tenth is the ordinal form of ten, used to indicate position in a sequence. It appears in dates, lists, rankings, and measurements.

In mathematics, a tenth is 1/10 of a whole; in decimal notation it is 0.1 and in percent 10%. The concept is foundational for dividing quantities into ten equal parts and for representing fractions in common notation.

In the metric system, the prefix deci- denotes one tenth, used in decimeter, deciliter, and similar units. Such prefixes help express fractional quantities without changing the base unit.

In calendars, October is commonly referred to as the tenth month, though its name derives from Latin octo meaning eight; the calendar was restructured and November and December retain their historical names despite now occupying the ninth and tenth positions respectively.

In music theory, a tenth is a compound interval spanning an octave and a third; the quality (major, minor, perfect) is determined by the quality of the third involved. The term is used to describe both melodic and harmonic relationships between notes.

In law, the Tenth Amendment to the United States Constitution addresses the distribution of power between federal and state governments, reflecting a principle of federalism.

In religion and culture, tithing refers to giving a tenth of income or produce to a religious organization, historically practiced in many communities.

The term also appears in everyday language to denote tenths of any unit, such as a tenth of a second, and in scientific and engineering contexts to describe fractional quantities.