zes

Zes is the Dutch word for the number six and is used as a cardinal numeral in counting, age, quantity, and dates. In ordinary speech and writing, it appears in phrases such as zes mensen (six people), zes uur (six hours), and op de zesde dag (on the sixth day). For larger numbers, Dutch combines unit numbers with tens, yielding forms such as zesentwintig (26) and zestig (60). The word is commonly pronounced with a mid front vowel: [zɛs].

Zes is etymologically related to other West Germanic numerals for six. It is cognate with the German sechs and the English six, all descending from a common Proto-Germanic root. This shared lineage reflects the close historical ties among the Germanic languages in numbering systems.

In contexts outside Dutch, zes may appear as an acronym or proper name, but there is no single, universal meaning beyond its role as the Dutch word for six. The term may be encountered in organizational titles, project codes, or brand names, depending on language and usage.