Term for a fifth element, sixth sense, eighth sin, and so on...
Post date: 2026-07-26 00:46:24
Views: 3
I am wondering if there's an established term for the following: there is a commonly accepted set of N items, and someone proposes one or more additions to the list. The concept is best illustrated by listing examples:


  • A "fifth element" (in addition to the classical fire/water/earth/air quartet)

  • A "sixth sense" (besides the conventional list of five)

  • An eighth deadly sin/heavenly virtue/wonder of the world/et cetera

  • A 27th letter of the (English) alphabet

  • The "51st state" of the USA

  • "Planet 10/X" (back when Pluto was on the list)

  • The mysterious "third shaker" or "third condiment" (besides salt and pepper).



Is there a term that for these additional items, or the concept of adding to a well-established list in general? I'm also interested in other examples of this pattern that I missed!
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