Contemporary: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that belongs to the same period as something else or is current in terms of time. Often used in arts, literature, or social context.

• Van Gogh was a contemporary of Gauguin
• Contemporary literature often deals with current social issues

Used to describe something related to the present or recent times, often with a connotation of advanced or new. Can refer to technology, architecture, lifestyle, etc.

• Modern technology has changed how we communicate
• The building has a very modern design

Refers to something happening or existing now. Usually used in everyday contexts to refer to presently ongoing events or situations.

• The current president will give a speech tonight
• Do you read the current news every morning?

Describes something that is current, fresh, and latest; often used for information, fashion, or technology. It implies that something is not outdated.

• Make sure your software is up-to-date
• She always wears the most up-to-date fashions

Used to describe something belonging to the present time or something that is modern.

• She prefers contemporary art to the classical style.
• Their contemporary music blends traditional and modern elements.

Typically used to refer to someone who is equal to another in abilities, qualifications, age, background, or social status.

• Her peers at school voted her as the class president.
• He always seeks feedback from his professional peers.

Used to refer to people with shared characteristics, often used in a friendly or informal manner.

• He's a hardworking fellow with a great sense of humor.
• She made many fellow friends in her university days.

Used in more formal contexts to describe something or someone of the same age or period as another.

• The ancient trees were coeval with the ruins nearby.
• His ideas were coeval with the rise of modern science.