eight

noun

1
: a number that is one more than seven see Table of Numbers
2
: the eighth in a set or series
the eight of spades
3
: something having eight units or members: such as
a
: an 8-oared racing boat or its crew
b
: an 8-cylinder engine or automobile
eight adjective
eight pronoun, plural in construction

Examples of eight in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
For example, students must submit seven slices of brisket, with ends attached, that aren’t thicker than three-eights inch and no thinner than one-fourth inch. Charles Baggarly, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 27 Apr. 2026 Struggling himself, Stirtz missed again — his 11th miss in 16 attempts — but Florida sophomore reserve Isaiah Brown was fouled after securing the rebound with eights seconds remaining. Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 Mar. 2026 James Harden had 30 points and eights assists for Cleveland. ABC News, 11 Mar. 2026 The Red Heat actor proposed eights years later; the couple tied the knot on April 26, 1986 in a Catholic ceremony in Hyannis, Massachusetts. Emma Banks, InStyle, 27 Feb. 2026 See All Example Sentences for eight

Word History

Etymology

Middle English eighte, from eighte, adjective, from Old English eahta; akin to Old High German ahto eight, Latin octo, Greek oktō

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of eight was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Eight.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/eight. Accessed 1 May. 2026.

Kids Definition

eight

noun
1
: a number that is one more than seven see number
2
: the eighth in a set or series
3
: something having eight units or members
eight adjective or pronoun

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