A numeral system based on the number sixty.
Etymological note
The term “sexagesimal” is derived from the Latin sexagesimus meaning “sixtieth”. Therefore, in the sexagesimal system, each unit is equal to one sixtieth of the next higher unit. A modified form of the sexagesimal system is still used today to measure time in hours, minutes and seconds, and to measure angles in degrees, minutes and seconds. In the measure of angles, for example, one second is equal to one sixtieth of one minute and one minute is equal to one sixtieth of one degree.
Historical note
The sexagesimal number system once used by the Babylonians is believed to be the system on which the system for measuring angles in degrees, minutes and seconds is based.