5 in Roman numerals

5 = V

Working: V = 5

The number 5 is written as V in Roman numerals.

Roman numerals are built by adding symbol values together from largest to smallest: V = 5. Where a smaller symbol appears before a larger one — as in IV for 4 or IX for 9 — it is subtracted rather than added, which keeps the notation short.

Structurally, V is 1 symbol long. It is entirely additive: every symbol adds to the running total, with no smaller symbol standing before a larger one. No symbol repeats.

V is thought to represent an open hand — four fingers and a thumb — with X for ten being two such hands joined at the point. Whether or not that origin is literal, it explains why the system's anchors sit at five and ten rather than at powers of a single base.

Nearby numbers

Number	Roman numeral
1	I
2	II
3	III
4	IV
6	VI
7	VII
8	VIII
9	IX

Try another value

Decimal number (1–3999)

Roman numeral

MMXXIV

Reference

X10

L50

C100

D500

M1000

Frequently asked questions

How do you write 5 in Roman numerals?

5 is written V. It breaks down as V = 5.

What are the seven Roman numeral symbols?

I is 1, V is 5, X is 10, L is 50, C is 100, D is 500, and M is 1,000. All Roman numerals are combinations of these seven symbols, and there is no symbol for zero.

For any other value, use the full Roman Numeral Converter on BrainVert.