n.1 (prec. by a or a number) (pl. dozen) twelve, regarded collectively (a dozen eggs; two dozen packets; ordered three dozen).
2 a set or group of twelve (packed in dozens).
3 colloq. about twelve, a fairly large indefinite number.
4 (in pl.; usu. foll. by of) colloq. very many (made dozens of mistakes).
5 (the dozens) a Black American game or ritualized exchange of verbal insults.
Phrases and idioms:
by the dozen in large quantities. talk nineteen to the dozen Brit. talk incessantly.
Derivatives:
dozenth adj. & n.
Etymology: ME f. OF dozeine, ult. f. L duodecim twelve