In a few noteworthy instances, the words composing the numeral scale of a
language have been carefully investigated and their original meanings
accurately determined. The simple structure of many of the rude languages
of the world should render this possible in a multitude of cases; but
investigators are too often content with the mere numerals themselves, and
make no inquiry respecting their meanings. But the following exposition of
the Zuñi scale, given by Lieutenant Gushing[68] leaves nothing to be
desired:

1. töpinte = taken to start with.
2. kwilli = put down together with.
3. ha'[=i] = the equally dividing finger.
4. awite = all the fingers all but done with.
5. öpte = the notched off.

This finishes the list of original simple numerals, the Zuñi stopping, or
"notching off," when he finishes the fingers of one hand. Compounding now
begins.

6. topalïk'ya = another brought to add to the done with.
7. kwillilïk'ya = two brought to and held up with the rest.
8. hailïk'ye = three brought to and held up with the rest.
9. tenalïk'ya = all but all are held up with the rest.
10. ästem'thila = all the fingers.
11. ästem'thla topayä'thl'tona = all the fingers and another over
above held.

The process of formation indicated in 11 is used in the succeeding numerals
up to 19.