What does the number twenty-two mean?  Firstly, we look at the dictionary definition:  “1:  a number that is one number more than twenty-one; 2:  a .22 caliber firearm ”  (Merriam-Webster Dictionary.)  I believe the definition could have been improved by adding “and one less than twenty-three to put things in perspective — a disappointing start that hardly advances any narrative.       

Besides the firearm reference, the numeral twenty-two achieved considerable notoriety in 1961 through the famous novelette by Joseph Heller, Catch 22, defined as  “A dilemma or difficult circumstances from which there is no escape because of mutually conflicting or dependent conditions.”  (dictionary.com)  

The term Catch 22, essentially describes a dilemma or paradoxical situation bound by contradictory rules; for example: a requirement that cannot be met until a prerequisite requirement is met, but the prerequisite cannot be obtained until the original requirement is met.  (urbandictionary.com)   In the book, a combat pilot desired to be removed from combat duty on the ground of insanity, but before he could be removed, he had to request removal, which proved that he was sane because only sane pilots would make such a request. 

While Catch 22 remains a “catchy” phrase, it lacks significance for the numeral “22’?  Why not “Catch 23, or “Catch 19?”  I suppose that the balance of each “2” bears some meaning; but if that is the case, then why not “Catch 11” or Catch 33?”  Why did Heller chose twenty-two?  Did it exist before he wrote about it?  Lets examine further:

The Urban Dictionary, an enlightening reference for slang terms, defines “twenty-two” as “when a man is kicked in the testicles . . .” (urbandictionary.com)  Oooh, how that must hurt!  Rather than a “Catch 22,” however, it signifies catching two at an inopportune moment.   

In 2013, a well-known Pop singer sang about twenty-two:

“I don’t know about you, 

But I’m feeling 22. 

Everything will be alright,

If you keep me next to you…

22, ooh ooh; 22, ooh ooh.”

Actually, the song lyrics leave me wanting, because one could insert any double digit number under 70 and achieve the same result — unless, of course, the singer had just experienced the Urban Dictionary definition for twenty-two.

What significance lies in a number?  Obviously, some numbers take on a special meaning, while others do not.  For example, everyone would like to be number one at something, score a ten in an athletic contest, or roll a lucky seven in a crap game.  Two may comprise delightful company, whereas three becomes a crowd.

Consider the bland, uninteresting numeral 23, which Merriam-Webster Dictionary aptly defines as:  “one more than 22 in number.”  Gee!  No one needs to consult a dictionary for that definition.  What may surprise you, however, is that the numeral 23 carried a special meeting in history and of today.  Lets look at a few. 

In genetics, most folks know that the human genome carries 23 chromosomes, which claim responsibility for whom we have become.  Each parent contributes 23 chromosomes, so a human cell nuclei comprises 46 chromosomes made out of 23 pairs.  You can find out more about your origins by spitting into a vial, and sending your DNA sample to “23 and Me.”   They will analyze and inform from whence your ancestors came, and other tidbits of knowledge. (23andme.com)

A college Statistics course will feature the familiar birthday paradox; i.e., in a random group of 23 or more people, more than a 50% probability exists that at least two in that group will celebrate the same birthday date.  It isn’t certain, of course, but the odds favor good chances to win a free drink at your local bar.  If you prefer better odds, one only need to by increase the group number from 23 to 70 people and assure a 99.9% chance. (Wikipedia)

“23 skidoo,” a phrase popularized in the early twentieth century, meant to depart, or to be forced to depart, quickly from a current location, as by a police raid.  The origin reportedly emanated from a subway exit on 23rd street, which had a vent, which would blow up the skirts of women exiting the train.  When the police arrived, the expression “23 skidoo” invited the crowd to scatter, as “lets get out of here.”  Some believe the 23 term originated with Charles Dickens’ novel, A Tale of Two Cities, when the old woman counting the daily victims calls “23” as the hero is beheaded. (Independent.com.UK)

In the 1990’s, Neil Simon wrote a play featuring Sid Caesar’s comedy writers, unusually entitled “Laughter on the 23rd floor.”  Simon consulted his former colleagues to determine the funniest floor number. Floor 23 received the most votes.  I guess you had to be there.     

Surprisingly, many more 23 oddity facts exist, so the numeral 23 embodies more meaning than would initially come to mind.