In the Hubble sequence designation for ellipticals (E0 to E7), what does the numerical value quantify?

Answer

The degree of apparent flattening

The number assigned in the E designation quantifies the degree of apparent flattening when viewed from Earth, ranging from 0 (most circular) to 7 (most elongated).

In the Hubble sequence designation for ellipticals (E0 to E7), what does the numerical value quantify?
galaxieselliptical galaxiesshape