Contemporary Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐จ
contemporary
[kษnหtษmpษrษri ]
Definitions
society
Belonging to or occurring in the present; modern or current.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contemporary |
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.
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| modern |
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.
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| current |
Refers to something happening or existing now. Usually used in everyday contexts to refer to presently ongoing events or situations.
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| up-to-date |
Describes something that is current, fresh, and latest; often used for information, fashion, or technology. It implies that something is not outdated.
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Examples of usage
- contemporary art
- contemporary music scene
- contemporary issues in society
art
A person or thing living or existing at the same time as another.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| contemporary |
Used to describe something belonging to the present time or something that is modern.
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| peer |
Typically used to refer to someone who is equal to another in abilities, qualifications, age, background, or social status.
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| fellow |
Used to refer to people with shared characteristics, often used in a friendly or informal manner.
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| coeval |
Used in more formal contexts to describe something or someone of the same age or period as another.
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Examples of usage
- Picasso and Matisse were contemporaries
- The novel is set in the contemporary of World War II
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word comes from Latin 'contemporarius', which means 'with time', reflecting its relation to the present.
- First known use in English was in the 16th century, to refer to people who lived in the same age.
- In art, it started being used to define movements that are modern compared to classical periods.
Art and Literature
- Contemporary literature often reflects current social issues, including technology, identity, and culture.
- In visual arts, contemporary artists often challenge traditional forms and express current societal dialogues.
- Notable contemporary authors include Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and David Foster Wallace, who explore complex modern themes.
Pop Culture
- In music, contemporary styles include pop, electronic, and hip-hop, which dominate charts today.
- Television shows today often tackle modern-day issues, making them relevant to current viewers.
- Fashion trends labeled 'contemporary' often mix classic styles with modern twists.
Science and Technology
- Contemporary science embraces interdisciplinary approaches, uniting fields like biology and technology to solve today's problems.
- Current technological advancements, such as AI and renewable energy, shape our contemporary world.
- The concept of contemporary science stresses the necessity for rapid adaptation and innovation.
Social Movements
- Contemporary movements such as Black Lives Matter focus on racial equality and justice, reflecting current societal needs.
- Environmental activism today pushes for immediate action against climate change, highlighting its urgency.
- The LGBTQ+ rights movement has evolved significantly in contemporary society, advocating for equal rights and recognition.
Origin of 'contemporary'
The word 'contemporary' originated from the Latin word 'contemporarius', which is a combination of 'con-' (meaning 'together') and 'temporarius' (meaning 'of time'). It first appeared in English in the early 17th century. Over time, 'contemporary' has come to represent the idea of something being current, modern, or of the same time period.