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What is a baker's dozen?
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Quick Answer
A baker's dozen is 13 rather than 12. The most widely cited explanation is that medieval English bakers added an extra loaf to avoid penalties for selling short weight.
The Full Story
In 13th-century England, the Assize of Bread and Ale, dating from around 1266, tied the price and weight of bread to the price of grain. Bakers who sold underweight loaves could face fines or other punishments. Because hand-made loaves varied in size, bakers reportedly added a thirteenth item to a batch of twelve to make sure they never fell short. The phrase 'baker's dozen' is recorded in English from the late 16th century. Today it simply means thirteen.
Key Facts
1.A baker's dozen equals 13.
2.The Assize of Bread and Ale dates from around 1266 in England.
3.The phrase is recorded in English from the 1500s.
YouTube Angle
Suggested video title for this topic:
"Why a baker's dozen is 13 — a medieval law about bread."