Numerals in Koracha

Abstract The paper examines Koracha numerals to comprehend their internal structure and historical development. This study has revealed several intriguing features within Koracha, including: (1) a distinct structure in the formation of complex numerals, where some involve a conjoining morpheme, (2) the presence of two different forms for the base term ‘ten’ in the creation of higher numerals, (3) variations in the forms of numerals used independently versus those employed in compound numerals, and (4) the existence of unique forms of numerals, among other notable characteristics. An examination of the historical aspects of Koracha numerals has the potential to unveil various intriguing historical developments, including the retention of the conjoining morpheme — a possible Dravidian feature lost in other languages but preserved in Koracha. Additionally, Koracha displays two distinct forms of the numeral ‘ten’ in various complex numerals, indicating an ongoing historical shift in numeral forms.