two-thirds

UK: ˌtuː ˈθɜːdz | US: ˌtuː ˈθɜrdz

Definition

  1. n. a fraction representing two parts out of three equal parts of a whole

  2. adj. constituting or amounting to two parts out of three

Structure
two <numeral 2>thirds <plural of "third," from Old English "þridda">
Etymology

The word "two-thirds" is a compound formed directly from the numeral "two" (Old English "twā") and the plural of "third" (Old English "þridda," meaning "one of three equal parts"). The hyphenated form emerged in Middle English to clearly denote a fractional relationship. The logic is straightforward: "two" quantifies the parts, while "thirds" specifies the division of the whole. This construction reflects the Germanic tradition of forming fractions by combining numerals with ordinal-derived terms (e.g., "half," "third").

Examples

  1. Two-thirds of the students voted for the new policy.

  2. The recipe requires two-thirds cup of sugar.

  3. She completed two-thirds of the project before the deadline.

  4. The agreement was supported by a two-thirds majority.

  5. Only two-thirds of the attendees registered in advance.