Centime Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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centime
[หsรฆn.tiหm ]
Definition
currency unit
A centime is a fractional monetary unit used in various countries, particularly those that apply the decimal system. It is equal to one hundredth of the unit of currency in a given country. The term is commonly associated with currencies such as the French franc and the Belgian franc, where it was used as a standard unit for transactions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- I saved a few centimes for the bus fare.
- The price tag showed the cost in euros and centimes.
- She found an old coin worth several centimes.
- Don't forget to count my change; I need those centimes.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- In France, the centime was widely used until the euro was introduced, facilitating everyday transactions.
- The phrase 'a centime saved is a centime earned' reflects the importance of small savings in personal finance.
Currency Evolution
- Countries like Laos and Morocco have also minted coins named centime, demonstrating the diversity of currency systems worldwide.
- The introduction of the euro replaced the centime in many European countries, simplifying currency exchange and trade.
Pop Culture
- Centimes sometimes appear in movies depicting European life, especially in scenes involving markets or street vendors.
- In literature, centimes may symbolize thriftiness or the value of small choices in life.
Historical Context
- Centime coins were originally made of copper or bronze, reflecting the material value during the time of their circulation.
- During the revolt of the Paris Commune in 1871, centime coins were melted down to create weapons, showcasing their role beyond mere currency.
Origin of 'centime'
Main points about word origin
- Derived from the French word 'cent' meaning 'hundred', highlighting its value as one hundredth of a bigger unit.
- The term has been used since the late 18th century, when decimal currency systems were introduced in Europe.
The term 'centime' is derived from the French word 'cent', meaning one hundred. The suffix '-ime' is used in French to denote a unit of measure or a subdivision of a whole. The usage of centime dates back to the 19th century when the metric system was being adopted in various countries, leading to the implementation of decimal currency systems. France introduced the centime as part of the franc system, which was established in 1795. Over time, several other countries also adopted the term for their own fractional currency units, particularly in regions following the decimal system. The popularity of the centime is evident in modern times, where it continues to be relevant in conversations about currency, especially in historical contexts and when dealing with prices in euros, where the concept of cents comes into play.