A "dozen" is a term used to describe a quantity of twelve items. It is commonly used in various contexts, such as counting eggs, pastries, or other goods. The word originates from the Old French term "dozaine," which means a group of twelve. In everyday life, people often buy items in dozens for convenience. For example, a carton of eggs typically contains a dozen eggs. This grouping makes it easier to manage and sell products, as many recipes and serving sizes are based on the number twelve, making it a practical unit of measurement in cooking and baking.