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Century: meaning, definitions and examples

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century

 

[ ˈsɛn.tʃər.i ]

Noun
Oxford 3000 Expressions and time
Context #1 | Noun

time measurement

A century is a period of one hundred years. It is commonly used to refer to a specific period in history, such as the 20th century. The concept of a century is widely recognized and used in various fields, including history, science, and literature.

Synonyms

100 years, centennial, century-long.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
century

Typically used in historical, scientific, or general life span contexts. It denotes a period of 100 years.

  • The 20th century saw great technological advancements.
  • She lived for nearly a century.
100 years

A straightforward and literal expression used in casual, educational, or descriptive contexts. It emphasizes the exact number of years.

  • The building has been standing for 100 years.
  • He celebrated his 100 years birthday last month.
centennial

Used for anniversaries or celebrations marking a 100-year milestone. It's often seen in formal or ceremonial contexts.

  • The city will celebrate its centennial next year.
  • They held a centennial exhibition for the foundation of the company.
century-long

Describes something that extends for or lasts an entire century. It’s commonly used in historical or longitudinal studies.

  • The century-long conflict changed the course of history.
  • A century-long tradition of excellence defines the institution.

Examples of usage

  • The 21st century began on January 1, 2001.
  • The 19th century was a time of great industrialization and innovation.
  • The concept of a century is important for understanding historical timelines.
Context #2 | Noun

hundredth anniversary

In some contexts, century can also refer to a hundredth anniversary of an event. For example, a company celebrating its centenary is marking its hundredth year of existence.

Synonyms

100-year mark, centennial celebration, hundredth anniversary.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
century

This term, though duplicated, can again signify a 100-year period, particularly in a more literary or grandiose context.

  • A century has passed since the end of World War I
  • The building has stood for more than a century
hundredth anniversary

This phrase is a formal way to denote the 100-year anniversary of a significant event, often used in written communications, speeches, or formal documents.

  • They are organizing a gala for the hundredth anniversary of the school
  • The hundredth anniversary of her birth was commemorated with a special ceremony
centennial celebration

This term is specifically used to describe the event or activities held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of an important date or event. It is often used in formal contexts and event planning.

  • The city is planning a centennial celebration to honor its founding
  • The centennial celebration included a parade and fireworks
100-year mark

This phrase is informal and commonly used in casual conversation or writing to denote a milestone of 100 years.

  • The company will reach its 100-year mark next month
  • We are approaching the 100-year mark since the foundation of the museum

Examples of usage

  • The university celebrated its centenary with a series of events and ceremonies.
  • Our family reunion will coincide with the centenary of our grandparents' wedding.

Translations

Translations of the word "century" in other languages:

🇵🇹 século

🇮🇳 सदी

🇩🇪 Jahrhundert

🇮🇩 abad

🇺🇦 століття

🇵🇱 wiek

🇯🇵 世紀 (seiki)

🇫🇷 siècle

🇪🇸 siglo

🇹🇷 yüzyıl

🇰🇷 세기 (segi)

🇸🇦 قرن (qarn)

🇨🇿 století

🇸🇰 storočie

🇨🇳 世纪 (shìjì)

🇸🇮 stoletje

🇮🇸 öld

🇰🇿 ғасыр

🇬🇪 საუკუნე (saukune)

🇦🇿 əsr

🇲🇽 siglo

Etymology

The word 'century' originated from the Latin word 'centuria,' which referred to a group of one hundred soldiers in the Roman army. Over time, the term evolved to signify a period of one hundred years. The concept of measuring time in centuries has been used for centuries in various civilizations and cultures to mark significant historical periods. Today, the term 'century' continues to be widely used and understood to represent a span of one hundred years.

See also: cent, centenary, centennial, centesimal, centre, centum.

Word Frequency Rank

With position #460, this word is vital for basic English fluency. It appears very frequently in everyday language and should be among the first words you learn and actively use.