In German
zwölf
Meaning: twelve
Formal or informal? “Zwölf” is twelve. It has the ö with two dots, and the spelling is “zwölf”, not “zwolf”.
Example sentences
Der Kurs dauert zwölf Wochen.
The course lasts twelve weeks.
Es ist zwölf Uhr mittags.
It's twelve o'clock at noon.
Ein Dutzend hat zwölf Eier.
A dozen has twelve eggs.
Grammar note
“Zwölf” doesn't change in form, and the noun after it is plural: “zwölf Wochen”, “zwölf Eier”. Note the umlaut on the “ö”.
Common mistake
Don't write “zwolf” without the umlaut. The ö is required, and “zwölf” is not a form of “elf” (eleven).
Quick check
Which German word means “twelve”?
More words on this topic
Keep learning German
Practise it in a lesson →Frequently asked questions
How do you say “a dozen” in German?
“Ein Dutzend”, which is twelve items.
Is “zwölf” formed from “elf”?
No, it's a separate word, even though it's close to “zwei” and “elf”.