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Centurion: meaning, definitions and examples

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centurion

 

[ sɛnˈtjʊəriən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

Roman military

A centurion was a professional officer of the Roman army, who commanded a century. Typically, a century consisted of around 80 soldiers. Centurions were responsible for the training, discipline, and welfare of their men, and played a vital role in maintaining the effectiveness of the Roman military. They were often experienced soldiers promoted for their leadership and tactical skills, and they held a significant position of authority within the military hierarchy.

Synonyms

commander, military leader, officer

Examples of usage

  • The centurion led his men bravely into battle.
  • Centurions were key figures in the Roman legions.
  • Many historical accounts describe the duties of a centurion.
  • The centurion's leadership was crucial during the campaign.

Translations

Translations of the word "centurion" in other languages:

🇵🇹 centurião

🇮🇳 सौदागर

🇩🇪 Zenturio

🇮🇩 senturion

🇺🇦 центуріон

🇵🇱 centurion

🇯🇵 センチュリオン

🇫🇷 centurion

🇪🇸 centurión

🇹🇷 centurion

🇰🇷 센투리온

🇸🇦 مئة

🇨🇿 centurion

🇸🇰 centurion

🇨🇳 百夫长

🇸🇮 centurion

🇮🇸 hundraðmaður

🇰🇿 сентурион

🇬🇪 სენტურიონი

🇦🇿 centurion

🇲🇽 centurión

Word origin

The word 'centurion' originates from the Latin term 'centurio,' which is derived from 'centum,' meaning one hundred. In the context of the Roman army, centurions commanded a 'century' of soldiers, although actual numbers varied over time. The role of the centurion was vital in the structure and effectiveness of the Roman military, evolving through the Republic and into the Empire. Centurions were often long-serving veterans who had demonstrated their bravery and capability in various campaigns, thereby rising through the ranks to positions of leadership. As Rome's military tactics and organization developed, the centurion's responsibilities expanded, including aspects of training, discipline, and logistics. Over the centuries, the term has been adopted into various languages to refer to military leaders or officers, often retaining its connotation of authority and respect.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,188, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.