Why "No." is the Abbreviation for "Number"
In our daily lives, we often see "Number" abbreviated as "No.". For example, when creating a list or indicating order, we use "No. 1," "No. 2," and so on. But if you look closely, the word "Number" doesn't contain the letter 'o' at all. So, why did "No." become the abbreviation for "Number"?
The Secret of "No." Started in Latin
The answer lies in Latin. The origin of "Number" is the Latin word "numerus," which means 'a count' or 'a quantity.' In Latin, the phrase "numero" was used to mean "by the number" or "in number."
The key here is "numero." In the past, when abbreviating words, it was common practice to use the first letter along with a specific letter from the word. From "numero," the first letter 'N' and the 'o' were taken to create the abbreviation "No."
This "No." notation has a long history, with records of its use in English dating back to the 17th century. Initially, it was sometimes used in forms like 'N°' with a small 'o' written above, indicating the 'o' from "numero." Over time, it gradually settled into the current "No." form.