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.