Decile

/ˈdɛsaɪl/ noun

Definition

One of ten equal groups into which a population or dataset can be divided based on rank order, typically used in statistical analysis to show relative position. Each decile represents 10% of the total distribution.

Etymology

From Latin 'decem' (ten) + '-ile' (relating to division), following the pattern of 'percentile' and 'quartile.' The term was coined in the early 20th century for statistical analysis purposes.

Kelly Says

Just like 'decimal' and 'December' (originally the 10th month), decile comes from 'decem' meaning ten - it's like cutting a pie into ten equal slices and saying which slice you're in!

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