What is 16 in math read as? The number 16 is typically read as "sixteen" in the English language. This naming convention follows the standard numerical system used in the United States, which is based on the decimal system. The word "sixteen" is derived from the Latin "sex" (six) and "decem" (ten), reflecting the fact that 16 is six times ten plus six.

The reason for this naming convention lies in the historical development of the English language and its numerical system. English, like many other languages, has evolved over centuries, incorporating words from various sources, including Latin and Old English. The decimal system, which is the foundation of modern mathematics, was introduced to Europe during the Middle Ages and has since become the standard numerical system worldwide.

Data from educational resources, such as the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM), indicate that the decimal system is the most widely used and taught numerical system in the United States. The NCTM's standards emphasize the importance of understanding the decimal system and its components, including place value and the relationships between numbers. This emphasis on the decimal system in education reinforces the use of "sixteen" as the standard way to read the number 16.

In conclusion, the number 16 is read as "sixteen" in the English language, reflecting the decimal system's influence on the naming of numbers. This convention is rooted in the historical development of the English language and is supported by educational standards that promote the understanding and use of the decimal system.