The Ósósọ̀ Numeral System

Abstract

Numeral systems are fundamental aspects of human language, revealing cultural identity, cognitive processes, and mathematical thoughts of a people. While extensive research has explored decimal and vigesimal numeral systems globally, indigenous counting system of understudied languages like Ósósọ̀ have received, comparatively, less attention. This paper, therefore, examines the numeral system of Ósósọ̀, an Edoid language spoken in Nigeria, focusing on its structural and morphological mechanisms deployed in the formation of Ósósọ̀ numerals. Ósósọ̀ utilizes a hybrid numeral framework, integrating decimal principles at the base level while adopting vigesimal strategies for larger numbers. This combination reflects both traditional influence and linguistic adaptations over time. A distinctive aspect of Ósósọ̀ numeration is the continued use of cowry-based counting system as seen in the incorporation of ‘uto – cowry’ within numerical expressions. Additionally, borrowed linguistic structures contribute to their modern numeration system, demonstrating the dynamic evolution of language in response to external influences. The research explores phonological and morphological mechanism deployed in the formation of Ósósọ̀ numerals. Data for the analysis comprises primary data collected from eight language consultants (aged 50 to 80) while secondary data is from a booklet written in Ósósọ̀. The data was subjected to morpheme-by-morpheme glossing to uncover structural intricacies in numeral assignments. By mapping Ósósọ̀’s numeral patterns, this paper aims to provide insight into the broader connection between language, mathematical cognition, and cultural heritage of the Ósósọ̀ people.